yoo 



MR. SPONGE'S SPORTING TOUR. 



Mr. Sponge, not being desirous of continuing the " calling " 

 controversy, especially as it might lead to inquires relative to his 

 acquaintance with Sir Harry, finished the contents of his plate 

 quickly, drank up his tea, and was presently alongside of his host, 

 asking him whether he " was good for a ride, a walk, or what ? " 



" A (puff) ride, a (wheeze) walk, or a (gasp) what ? " repeated 

 Jog, thoughtfully. " No, I (puff) think I'll stay at (puff) home," 

 thinking that would be the safest plan. 



" Ord, hang it, you'll never lie at earth such a day as this ! " 

 exclaimed Sponge, looking out on the bright, sunny landscape. 



" Got a great deal to do," retorted Jog, who, like all thoroughly 

 idle men, was always dreadfully busy. He then dived into a 

 bundle of rough sticks, and proceeded to select one to fashion into 

 the head of Mr. Hume. Sponge, being unable to make anything 

 of him, was obliged to exhaust the day in the stable, and in 

 sauntering about the country. It was clear Jog was determined to 

 be rid of him, and he was sadly puzzled what to do. Dinner found 

 his host in no better humour, and after a sort of Quaker's meeting 

 of an evening, they parted heartily sick of each other. 



CHAPTER L. 



THE TRIGGER. 



m**, 



JOG slept badly 

 again, and 

 arose next 

 morning full 

 of projects for 

 getting rid of 

 his impudent, 

 unceremoni- 

 ous, free-and- 

 easy guest. 



Having tried 

 both an up 

 and a down- 

 stairs shout, he 

 now went out 

 and planted 

 himself immediately under Mr. Sponge's bedroom window, and, 

 clearing his voice, commenced his usual vociferations. 



" Bartholo — m — e — w ! " whined he. " Bartholo — m — e—w .' " 



MR. SPONGE GIVES POUTO A LESSON. 



• V 



