But the fact is, I've been thinking over this subject before.

There is a certain nut growing in these islands which is called the candle-nut, because the natives use it instead of candles, and I know all about it, and how to prepare it for burning--" "Then why don't you do it ?" interrupted Peterkin.

"Why have you kept us in the dark so long, you vile philosopher ?" "Because," said Jack, "I have not seen the tree yet, and I'm not sure that I should know either the tree or the nuts if I did see them.

You see, I forget the description." "Ah! that's just the way with me," said Peterkin with a deep sigh.

"I never could keep in my mind for half an hour the few descriptions I ever attempted to remember.