THE BOY WITHOUT A GENELUs. 185

When Mr. Wiseman had read this letter, he shook
his head, and said to his assistant, “A pretty subject
they have sent us here! a lad that has a great genius
for nothing atall. But perhaps my friend, Mr. Acres,
expects that a boy should show a genius for a thing
before he knows anything about it—no uncommon
error! Let us see, however, what the youth looks
like. I suppose he is a human creature, at least.”

Master Samuel Acres was now called in. He came
hanging down his head, and looking as though he wag
going to be flogged.

“Come hither, my dear!” said Mr. Wiseman—
“Stand by me, and do not be afraid. Nobody will
hurt you. How old are you?

Kleven, last May, sir.

A well-grown boy of your age, indeed. You love
play, I dare say.

Yes, sir.

What, are you a good hand at marbles ?

Pretty good, sir.

And can spin atop, and drive a hoop, I suppose P

Yes, sir.

Then you have the full use of your hands and fingers ?

Yes, sir.

Can you write, Samuel P |

I learned a little, sir, but I lett it off again,

And why so?

Because I could not make the letters.

No! Why, how do you think other boys do ?---have
they more fingers than you?

No, sir.

Are you not able to hold a pen as well as a marble ?

Samuel was sient.

Let me look at your hand.

Samuel held out both his paws like a dancing bear.

I see nothing here to hinder you from writing as
well as any boy m the school. You canread, I sup
poser

Yes, sir.