Sketches From Oldest America 



seemed to be a difference between the drums of his 

 ears, for one would catch a tune one way while the 

 other gave a different interpretation. The accordion 

 could not please both ears, so it squeaked and 

 wheezed out an air of its own. 



At last a time came when it was evident that a 

 change was coming over Billy. He was growing 

 more particular in his personal appearance, and was 

 even trying to learn how to whistle. 



Just about the same time, rumor said that the 

 widow Okpoktoah had been seen running around 

 the village trying to procure the loan of a cake of 

 soap. It looked very suspicious, but Billy would 

 not admit anything. He would simply hang his 

 head and grin. Then the cook came one morning 

 with the information that Billy had been seen very 

 late the previous evening talking earnestly with the 

 widow at her iglo. 



Time has now rolled along and Billy is very happy 

 for he owns the widow, yet those gossiping neigh 

 bors will persist in saying that Billy is not finding 

 his nights quite as restful as formerly, for his little 

 daughter has a very imperative way of ordering 

 him to take a walk during those hours of the night 

 when sleep seems the most refreshing. 

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