Now, there's a nice couple o' ducks swimming just the other side o' them reeds, as a lad might hit just as they rose from the water when we come round the corner; and I'd say hev a shot at 'em, Mester Dick--on'y, if I did, it would hurt your feelings." Dick was silent for a moment or two as he tried to keep down his human nature.

Then he spoke out: "I beg your pardon, Dave, after what you did for us.

May I take up the gun ?" "Ay.

Steady, lad!--keep her head over the stem, and I'll turn the boat round and send you along gently.

Now you lie down on your chesty and rest the barr'l on the net, for she's too heavy for you to handle.