I have done well; it is true philosophy to 'make assurance doubly
sure, and to take a bond of fate.' Now for a revisal of that last
stanza; and, I think, I'll read it aloud to that young cub, as Rushton
calls him. No doubt his forest character, primitive and poetical, will
cause him to appreciate its beauties. Hallo!"

Verty replied by a snore.

"What, asleep!" cried Mr. Roundjacket. "Now, you young sluggard! do
you mean to say that the atmosphere of this mansion, this temple of
Chancery, is not enlivening, sprightly, and anti-slumbrous? Ho, there!
do you presume to fall asleep over that beautiful and entertaining
conveyance, you young savage! Wake up!"

And Mr. Roundjacket hurled his ruler at Verty's desk, with the
accuracy of an experienced hand. The ruler came down with a crash, and
aroused the sleeper. Longears also started erect, looked around, and
then laid down again.

"Ah!" murmured Verty, who woke like a bird upon the boughs, "what was
that, _ma mere_?"

"There's his outlandish lingo--Delaware or Shawnee, I have no doubt!"
said Mr. Roundjacket.

Verty rose erect.

"Was I asleep? he said, smiling.

"I think you were."