EARLY TRIALS. 153 



were all engaged ; this little chap rides fairly enough at home, 

 and I trusted the whole business to the Duckling ; I was sure 

 he could stay, that sort never turns it up, and he had made the 

 old one lie down at even weights.' 



I shall not be surprised if another season sees the Ugly 

 Duckling turn into a bird of very fair plumage, and much 

 power of wing. 



