360 THOMAS A' THING. 



while changes little himself. He is philosopher enough to 

 be contented with his lot, thoroughly enjoying his book on 

 a winter evening; the more so if it " trates o' nateral 

 history." He continues to plod on his way; and even 

 John Sly, who has the reputation of being a wag, and is a 

 tailor to boot, whose quick grey eye looks as if winking 

 at the sun, to take the shine out of him, has ceased to 

 exchange a banter, having often found to his cost that 

 there was more point and sarcasm in Thomas's wisdom 

 than in his wit. 



