'Thank 'ee,' said the little man. 'You speak very
hearty. To think that she should never see the Dolls
-- and them a-staring at her, so bold, all day long!
That's where it cuts. What's the damage, John?'
'I'll damage you,' said John, 'if you inquire. Dot!
Very near?
'Well! it's like you to say so,' observed the little
man. 'It's your kind way. Let me see. I think
that's all.'
'I think not,' said the Carrier. 'Try again.'
'Something for our Governor, eh?' said Caleb, after
pondering a little while. 'To be sure. That's what
I came for; but my head's so running on them Arks
and things! He hasn't been here, has he?'
'Not he,' returned the Carrier. 'He's too busy,
courting.'
'He's coming round though,' said Caleb; 'for he
told me to keep on the near side of the road going
home, and it was ten to one he'd take me up. I had
better go, by the bye. -- You couldn't have the good-
ness to let me pinch Boxer's tail, Mum, for half a
moment, could you?'
'Why, Caleb! what a question!'
'Oh never mind, Mum,' said the little man.
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