56 ROBERT DAWSON.

and manner, which he usually wore when he had out- °
witted or overreached any of the boys with whom he
had anything to do. The truth is; Mr, Merry did not
like boys. oe
With a heavy heart indeed did I begin my work. - ©
“T have a great mind to run off, and have nothing
more to do with such aman. He knew I wanted to
go nutting.” Such were my first thoughts. “TI will
give up the nutting rather than give up the job; for if
I go now, Mr. Merry will never let me come back
again.” These were my second thoughts. __
By-and-bye the gate opened, and in rushed Charley
Frazier, Sam Jones, ‘and some others into the yard.
“Where are you?” shouted Charley.’ “I have been
hunting everywhere after you! Your father said he
guessed you were here. Come! make ready! - We
are off directly !” :
fe Come, Robert! we ought not to lose the time!”
echoed Sam. cA jolly day we shall have of it. Come!
hurry ! hurry !”
“What a noise!” snarled Mr. Merry.