Jump in, and I'll give you the reins." "Is this the reason you were asking me what time I should start, Bill ?" inquired the old gentleman, as he mounted to his seat.

"Very kind of you: sure she's all right ?" "Well, I ought to know something about harnessing a mare by this time, I guess!" responded Bill, with a good deal of dignity, as he handed up the reins.

"Well, well I no doubt--no doubt! I'm accustomed to oversee it myself, that's all .-- Steady, Dolly! Good-night." "Good-night, Profess'r Valeyon," said Bill, who, in harnessing the mare had managed, with intoxicated ingenuity, so to twist one of the buckles of the head-gear, that every time the reins were tightened, the sharp tongue was driven in under her jaw-bone.

The wagon rattled off at an unusual speed; there was no need for a whip, and the professor congratulated himself upon the fine condition of his steed.
"Hasn't shown such speed for years," muttered he, admiringly.

"If I'd only been a horse-jockey, now, I could have made a fortune out of her! Points all superb--only wants a little training." They had now descended the hill on which stood the village, and were flying along the level stretch between the willow-trees.