Matters had now, however, passed out of their hands, and both men cast appraising glances at each other's form.

The only one who kept his head was Master Hardy, and it was a source of considerable relief to both of them when, from the top of the stairs, the voice of that youthful Solomon was heard declining in the most positive terms to do anything of the kind.
Captain Hardy repeated his command.

The only reply was the violent closing of a door at the top of the house, and after waiting a short time he led the way to the front door himself.
"You will regret your insolence before I have done with you," said his visitor, as he paused on the step.

"It's the old story of a beggar on horseback." "It's a good story," said Captain Hardy, "but to my mind it doesn't come up to the one about Humpty-Dumpty.

Good-night.".