from the direction of the toll-bridge, and had evidently met the boy.

"I've got my lo'd--I've got my lo'd, but I'll leave behind me all
o' the ro'd," he chirped, when the Cap'n went plunging toward him
with the evident intention of getting on board.

"I'm foreman of the Ancients," roared the Cap'n, "and I have the right
to press into service any craft I see passin'. Take me aboard, I say,
dumblast ye!"

"This ain't no high seas," retorted Brackett, trying to lick past.
"You can drive gents out of your dooryard, but you can't do no
press-gang bus'ness on 'em."

It was apparent that even "Balm o' Joy's" bland nature could
entertain resentment.

"'Tain't right to lay up grudges ag'inst a man that was fussed up
like I was, Mister Brackett," pleaded the Cap'n, hopping along beside
the van. "I've got to git to that fire, I tell you. I'm the foreman!
I'll use you right, after this. I will, I tell you. Lemme on board."

"Promus' flies high when it's hot and dry!" twittered the peddler,
still cheerful but obstinate.

"I'll give ye five dollars to take me to Ben Ide's--ten!" he roared,
when Brackett showed no sign of stopping.

"Promus' on the ground can be better found. Whoa!" cried Brackett,
promptly. "I'll take the fare before you climb up! You'll be so busy