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 obedience is what I require. When you have followed my instructions bring me the results. I—I am in no especial haste. You needn't come again to-day. To-morrow morning will answer. Peter, show the gentleman out."

But for once Peter was not on hand when wanted. Commonly, during an attack of gout, he kept as close to his master as that exacting person's "own shadow." The old man now looked around in surprise, for not only had Peter, but Josephine, disappeared. There were also voices in the hall, and one of these was unfamiliar.

"Peter! Peter!" he called, and loudly.

"Yes, Massa Joe. Here am I," answered the butler, reappearing.

"Who's out yonder?"

"A—er—ahem!—the little boy from next door, suh."

"That rough fellow? What's he want?"

"He, I reckon, he's just come to call on our Miss Josephine, suh."

Mr. Smith leaned back in his chair, over