"It is only a way he has got.

He cannot help laughing for the life of him when the fit is on.

He really does not mean to be rude, sir, I assure you." "Doesn't he ?" repeated the old gentleman, smiling in a knowing fashion as if he knew all about it.

"Then, he's very unlike all the boys I have come across in my time; and they've been a goodish few, missy! But, there, get along with you both, and look out of the window to your heart's content.

Take care, though, that neither you nor that young jackanapes don't manage to tumble out on the line, for I can't pick you up from here!" Bob and Nellie took advantage at once of the permission granted them; but, soon, becoming tired of the monotonous sameness of the ever- whirling landscape, turned back within the railway-carriage, and, sitting down like ordinary and regular travellers accustomed by this time to all the sights and scenes of the road, the pair were presently engaged in earnest and confidential conversation with the now extremely affable, old gentleman.
"Ah!" he exclaimed, breaking the ice on seeing the pair at last quiet.
"So, your name is Strong, eh ?" "Yes, sir," answered Bob, acting as spokesman.