All was now explained to me; except that I could in no way account for this wire, placed expressly to serve as a conductor for the lightning.

It seemed to be the work of magic.

The evening was too far advanced for me to distinguish how it was fastened, and what fixed it below; therefore, enjoining Ernest to call loudly if he needed me, I hastened down.

I saw my three cooks very busy, as I passed through, preparing the broth for their mother--they assured me it would be excellent.

Fritz boasted that he had killed the fowl with all speed, Jack that he had plucked it without tearing it much, and Francis that he had lighted and kept up the fire.