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232 will take up a lot of your time; indeed, it is not at all improbable they will be continued from time to time throughout the whole period of twilight."

"What do you suggest?" I asked.

"That you give a few lectures," was the ready response.

"I would willingly do so," I answered, "but I am a poor speaker, as I have not been accustomed to speaking in public; and further, I am afraid that I shall experience a difficulty in speaking in your language."

"But you will have an indulgent audience," was the reply; "for I am certain the people will appreciate the effort, and doubtless you will improve by practice."

"Then I will make the attempt," I said. But will not the people be too much occupied to attend during the period of twilight?"

"Perhaps they will," was the answer; "but suppose you give one before the end of the summer?"

"That undoubtedly will be the proper time," I responded. "And am I to deliver the lectures as an employé of the Government?" I inquired.

"If you choose," he answered; "but you will find it much more profitable to give them on your