MR. MULLINS PLEADS FOR ME. 155

“everything would have been perfectly easy,
for if that was all I could have withdrawn
from sending any specimens to the show, but
as the case stands I don’t really see what
can be done now; you see” (turning to
Mullins), “the names of the successful com-
petitors are even published, so I don’t really
see how I can withdraw now—”

“No, sir,” replies Mullins, “I don’t really
see as how you can; if I was you I should
just let the matter drop now, sir.”

“T don’t see what else can be done,” says
Father reflectively: “and as to the matter
of the price of the flowers, I suppose a
couple of guineas will set that right, now
that you really understand how the case
stands?”

“Why, yes, sir, certainly it will,” replies
Mullins, looking pleased that matters have
turned out no worse, “and I hope, sir, if I
may make bold to say such a thing, I hope
the young lady won't get into no more
trouble.”

“O no, I'll see to that,” says Father, with