'I stand treat, Uncle Joseph; what will you have ?' 'In that case,' replied the old gentleman, 'I'll take another sandwich.

I daresay I surprise you,' he went on, 'with my presence in a public-house; but the fact is, I act on a sound but little-known principle of my own--' 'O, it's better known than you suppose,' said Michael sipping his brandy and soda.

'I always act on it myself when I want a drink.' The old gentleman, who was anxious to propitiate Michael, laughed a cheerless laugh.

'You have such a flow of spirits,' said he, 'I am sure I often find it quite amusing.

But regarding this principle of which I was about to speak.