it often happened that the two mattresses would slide apart. The
contestants, suspending their struggles, would then try to kick them
together again without releasing the advantage of their holds. The
noise was beautiful. To de Laney, strong in maternal admonitions as to
proper deportment, it was all new and stirring, and quite without
precedent. He applauded excitedly, and made as much racket as the
rest.

A sudden and vigorous knock for the second time put an end to
hostilities. The wrestlers again sat bolt upright on the mattresses,
and listened.

"Gentlemen," cried an irritated German voice, "there is a lady
schleeping on the next floor!"

"Karl, Karl!" called one of the irrepressibles, "can I never teach you
to be accurate! No lady could possibly be sleeping anywhere in the
building."

He arose from the mattress and shook himself.

"Jeems," he continued sadly, "the world is against true virtue. Our
dear mother's wishes can not be respected."

De Laney came out of his corner.

"Fellows," he cried with enthusiasm, "I want you to come up and stay
all night with me some time, so mother can see that gentlemen can make
a noise!"