'THIS COMES HOPPING^ 



23 



much gratitude as could be expected, seeing that 

 he was but a man after all. 

 Doesn't it end nicely ? 



And now, having introduced my family and 

 myself to your notice, I must take leave of you 

 for a moment, for the night is dark and squally, 

 and few enemies will be abroad, and I may venture 

 to take a small walk, to quench my thirst at the 

 pond, with a reasonable hope of returning safe and 

 sound, to continue my narrative with a greater 

 sense of intimacy and mutual confidence. 



