I CONFIDE IN SIMMONS. 43

alarming manner that it scems as if this
would be the probable result.

I retreat behind Simmons, therefore, in
rather a cowardly manner T’m afraid, and
feeling bound to make a remark, say:

“ Hasn’t he rather long legs?”

“Long legs!” repeats Simmons, ‘aghast.
“They're beautiful legs, that’s what they are;
why, that foal will grow up to be one of the
best horses in this county, unless I be much
mistaken;” and, apparently very much hurt
at the indifference I show to this wonderful
creature, Simmons closes the door and moves
back to where we first met.

Arrived there I hold out the two eggs to
Simmons and say,—‘ I’ve brought you two
egos for your wife, Simmons. I thought
she might fancy them, perhaps.”

“Thank you, Miss Madge. I’m sure Mrs.
Simmons will be much pleased and honoured
by your thinking of her, and she will enjoy
the eggs too, Miss.”

This is satisfactory so far, so I make up
my mind that it will be my safest plan to