Page:Witty and entertaining exploits of George Buchanan (14).pdf/14

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One time George having no money, he goes away and gets a pick and spade, and then falls a digging at corner of the king's palace, which the king perceiving from his window, calls out what was he wanting there? Are you going to undermine my house and make it fall? No, my sovereign, said George; but it is verily reported that there is plenty of money about this house, and where can it be? says George, I cannot find it; for it is not within the house to do me service; then surely it must be below it. O George, says the king, that is a crave after the new fashion; what money you want I'll order it for you. Then, my sovereign, says George, I'll dig no more.

One time George being in the country, he arrived at an inn, where he alighted to refresh himself and his horse. The innkeeper charged him double price for every thing he called for. George never grumbled at this but gave him all his demands, and away he goes on his journey. At the inn where he quartered next night, he was used after the same manner, if not worse. Having little farther to go, he returned next day, and came to the same inn where he had been two nights before. So, when he alighted, the boy asked him what he would give his horse? What you will, says he. The master of the inn came into his room before supper, and asked what he would have for supper. What you will, landlord, says he. After supper, and a hearty bowl to put all down, he went to bed. On the morrow be rose very early, and called for the boy to make ready his horse in all haste, for be intended to mount and go directly. Soon after, he went into the stable where the boy was, calling for his horse, when he mounted with all the speed he could, and gave the boy a piece of money, saying, Here, my boy, this is for taking care of my horse;