However that might be, the number drawn was certainly Seven, and the story to be read was consequently the story which my brother had finished only two days before.
If I had not known that it was part of Morgan's character always to do exactly the reverse of what might be expected from him, I should have been surprised at the extraordinary docility he exhibited the moment his manuscript was placed in his hands.
"My turn again ?" he said.

"How very satisfactory! I was anxious to escape from this absurd position of mine as soon as possible, and here is the opportunity most considerately put into my hands.

Look out, all of you! I won't waste another moment.

I mean to begin instantly." "Do tell me," interposed Jessie, mischievously, "shall I be very much interested to-night' ?' "Not you!" retorted Morgan.

"You will be very much frightened instead.
You hair is uncommonly smooth at the present moment, but it will be all standing on end before I've done.