A JOKE THAT WENT WRONG For several days after the prank with the mouse Bob did not play any jokes.

The teacher ascribed that fact to the lecture she had given him.

Bob's mother, who also noticed that he was much more quiet than usual, feared he was going to be sick.
"I never knew him to be so subdued," she thought.

"I think I must give him some sulphur and molasses.

Perhaps he is getting some disease." She mentioned it to the captain.
"Nonsense," said the mariner.