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AN ANCIENT MANUSCRIPT. And another who was of few years but of great wisdom, in that he could by looking at a stone or a handful of earth, tell whether the land round about had been peopled by man, beast, or creeping things, and could say also if gold, silver, or precious stones might be found, and in how great quantity.

Then was there one who had contrived a chariot of fearsome design, which would travel over the land without horses, even up steep hills and over rocky places, and could also make great noises and noisome stenches to frighten the wild beasts.

Also did he take one greatly skilled in skinning and preserving birds and beasts, and in the art of making dishes to tickle the palate, which he had learned and practised in many lands.

Also chose he one, who though yet a youth was large of muscle and had gained honour at the seats of wisdom, by reason of his knowledge in the art of fisticuffs.

¶ Now! Behold! when all things were made ready, there came unto Shackleton a messenger from the palace of the King, yea even from the Great King himself, saying unto him;

Lo! The King, may he live for ever, hath heard from his Councillors of the noble work which thou