"I might as well die one way as another; and if there 's anything to eat in the house, I'm bound to have it.

I 've lived on slops and toasted bread three weeks, and I can't stand it any longer." He accordingly got up, and taking the lamp, stole very cautiously into the entry, and down stairs, having nothing but his night-clothes upon him.

The snapping of the stairs, under his tread, was the only noise that was heard, and this did not awake any of the household.

He proceeded at once to the kitchen closet, and commenced helping himself with a free hand to its contents.

He began upon a dish of corned beef and vegetables, from which he partook quite liberally.