The pigeon sank down toward the horizon--seemed about to
disappear--Verty uttered a deep sigh. But no: the bird suddenly
pauses, drops from the clouds, and settles upon the roof of a house
crowning a grassy hill, which hill was distant from Verty not more
than a quarter of a mile.

A smile of delight passed over Verty's countenance. He had found
Redbud--she was there!

There was no longer any necessity for such headlong speed--he could go
on slowly now--the goal was near, and would not fly as he approached.

Verty drew near the house, which was a tall, wooden structure,
embowered in trees, and carefully reconnoitered with true
huntsman-like precision. He thought that the place looked like the
residence of Redbud--it was so bright, and sunny, and cheerful.

On the roof sat the returned pigeon, cooing, and pluming his wings
among his fellows.




CHAPTER X.

VERTY MAKES THE ACQUAINTANCE OF MR. JINKS.


Just as Verty was making this latter observation, his smiling eyes
fixed on the mansion before him, he heard a voice at his feet, so to