of the renowned "wife-catchers," which I had in my sleep placed upon the
fire.

As I gazed mournfully upon the smoking relics of the ancient allies of our
house, I resolved to record this strange adventure; but you know I never
had much taste for writing, Jack, so I now confide the task to you. As he
concluded, my uncle raised his tumbler to his lips, and I could perceive a
tear sparkling in his eye--a genuine tribute of regard to the memory of the
venerated "_Wife Catchers_."

* * * * *


CORRESPONDENCE EXTRAORDINARY.

Wrote Paget to Pollen,
With face bright as brass,
"T'other day in the Town Hall
You mention'd an ass:

"Now, for family reasons,
I'd like much to know,
If on me you intended
That name to bestow?"

"My lord," says Jack Pollen,
"Believe me, ('tis true,)
I'd be sorry to slander
A donkey or you."