So says I to myself, 'This ain't respectful to our great nation to keep a high functionary a waitin' arter this fashion, is it?
Guess I'd better assart the honour of our republic by goin' away; and let him see that it warn't me that was his lackey last year.' "Well, jist as I had taken the sleeve of my coat and given my hat a rub over with it, (a good hat will carry off an old suit of clothes any time, but a new suit of clothes will never carry off an old hat, so I likes to keep my hat in good order in a general way).

Well, jist as I had done, in walks the porter's first leftenant; and sais he, 'Mr.Tact will see you, Sir.' "'He come plaguy near not seein' of me, then,' sais I; 'for I had jist commenced makin' tracks as you come in.

The next time he sends for me, tell him not to send till he is ready, will you?
For it's a rule o' mine to tag arter no man.' "The critter jist stopped short, and began to see whether that spelt treason or no.

He never heerd freedom o' speech afore, that feller, I guess, unless it was somebody a jawin' of him, up hill and down dale; so sais I, 'Lead off, my old 'coon, and I will foller you, and no mistake, if you blaze the line well.' "So he led me up stairs, opened a door, and 'nounced me; and there was Mr.Tact, sittin' at a large table, all alone.
"'How do you do, Mr.Slick,' says he.

'I am very glad to see you.