For Batty, he lays it to nothin' whativver, but takes it like a philosopher an' a gintleman." "Well, I suppose you don't mind my congratulating you on your success, whatever it may be," said Franklin, as he began to busy himself about his work at the desk.

"You're just a trifle mysterious, you know." "There's none I'd liever have shake me by the hand than yoursilf, Ned," said Battersleigh, "the more especially by this rayson, that ye've nivver believed in ould Batty at all, but thought him a visionary schamer, an' no more.

Didn't ye, now, Ned; on your honour ?" "No," said Franklin stoutly.

"I've always known you to be the best fellow in the world." "Tut, tut!" said Battersleigh.

"Ye're dodgin' the issue, boy.