The young imps on the verandah were not disappointed in their hope of hearing him "swar," which he did with a fluency and fervency which delighted them all amazingly, as they ducked and dodged hither and thither, to be out of the reach of his riding-whip; and, all whooping off together, they tumbled, in a pile of immeasurable giggle, on the withered turf under the verandah, where they kicked up their heels and shouted to their full satisfaction.
"If I had the little devils!" muttered Haley, between his teeth.
"But you ha'nt got 'em, though!" said Andy, with a triumphant flourish, and making a string of indescribable mouths at the unfortunate trader's back, when he was fairly beyond hearing.
"I say now, Shelby, this yer 's a most extro'rnary business!" said Haley, as he abruptly entered the parlor.

"It seems that gal 's off, with her young un." "Mr.Haley, Mrs.Shelby is present," said Mr.Shelby.
"I beg pardon, ma'am," said Haley, bowing slightly, with a still lowering brow; "but still I say, as I said before, this yer's a sing'lar report.

Is it true, sir ?" "Sir," said Mr.Shelby, "if you wish to communicate with me, you must observe something of the decorum of a gentleman.

Andy, take Mr.Haley's hat and riding-whip.

Take a seat, sir.