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Rh working at anything was out of the question for all but the Japanese, who never seemed to mind the heat in the least. What these little men from the Mikado's domain could do and endure was a constant source of wonder and astonishment to the rest of the Allies. "They are the backbone of this whole movement," said Gilbert; and Major Morris agreed with him.

"They used to jeer at the Japanese, just as they jeer at the Chinese," said the major. "But Mr. Jap is all there every time."

It was not until several days later that Gilbert managed to get away, in order to call again upon Amos Bartlett and his family. He had heard of a serious fire in that neighborhood, and wondered if it had reached the tea-merchant's residence.

He found the house untouched, although in much disorder, with the wreck of the back porch and the fallen tree still littering the enclosed garden. The fire had found the huge warehouse; and a back addition had been consumed, while the contents of the main building had suffered much from smoke and water.

"I am glad to see you, lieutenant," said Mrs.