A LADY'S BOA 61 



The Ancient came home at dusk on the day of 

 this last snake-killing exploit, and was shown the 

 body. It was in perfect condition, as only the head 

 had been beaten with sticks, the dogs not having 

 been there. 



" It would do for a lady's boa," he said. 



" Try it on," said C. S., and so he did, to the 

 huge amazement and wonder of the servants. 



" I think those boys would like to see it," he 

 said, meaning the " ducky " chummery. 



" They say they have never seen a snake, and 

 made me promise to send over the next one we 

 killed. I fancy they don't believe we have any." 



"Do take it over," we said, "this is such a big 



one." 



" I will go as I am," he said, and off he went 

 with the great creature coiled round his neck, and 

 dangling down his sides, out into the road ; 

 frightening all the passers-by into fits. By-and-bye 

 he returned, choking with mirth. He said he 

 found no one at home at first, so he sat down and 

 waited on the verandah. Presently one came in 

 when it had become quite dusk. He rushed up 

 the steps saying, "Hallo! old man, I haven't 



