Roundjacket only replied by flourishing his ruler.

Verty put on his cocked hat, admired himself for an instant in the
mirror over the fire-place, and went out humming his eternal Indian
song. Five minutes afterwards he was on his way to see Redbud,
followed dubiously by Longears, who evidently had not made up his mind
on the subject of his master's identity.

In order to explain the reception which Verty met with, it will be
necessary to precede him.




CHAPTER XVIII.

HOW MISS LAVINIA DEVELOPED HER THEORIES UPON MATRIMONY.


The Apple Orchard carriage, containing the solemn Miss Lavinia, very
soon arrived at the abode of old Scowley, as our friend Verty was
accustomed to call the respectable preceptress of Miss Redbud; and
Miss Lavinia descended and entered with solemn dignity.

Miss Sallianna and herself exchanged elaborate curtseys, and Miss
Lavinia sailed into the pleasant sylvan parlor and took her seat
reverely.

"Our dear little girls are amusing themselves this morning," said