At this moment a slight disturbance in a distant corner of the room
attracted their attention, and springing forward, little Maria Carlton
exclaimed--"Oh, Miss Mary, what do you think? Somebody has eat up the
world, and bit a great big piece out of the sun!"

When the merriment this excited had in some degree subsided, Dr.
Bryant laughingly said--"I am much afraid you have a Polyphemus among
your pupils. Miss Mary, do discover the incipient monster and eject
him forthwith. Heavens, what powers of digestion he must possess! Good
morning, ladies--good morning." And with a bow he left the house.

"Florry, dear, do try and sleep some; I will do all that is necessary
about the children. True, there is not enough to occupy me long, and
meanwhile you must impart the news of this victory to Aunt Lizzy."




CHAPTER XV.

"----I might not this believe
Without the sensible and true avouch
Of mine own eyes."

SHAKSPEARE.


Twilight had fallen slowly, for the evening was heavy and wet, and
dark masses of cloud driven by the northern blasts sailed gloomily