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ADVERTISEMENTS.

LOST.—­Two rubber sponges and two blankets.  When finished with, please return to the Manager, Michelot.

L10 REWARD.—­Lost, one pearl-drop ear-ring; may be under the carpet.  Finder will be rewarded as above, on returning same to “T.S.,” Offices of this Paper.

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“THE TACURU.”

No. 4.

Tuesday, March 29th, 1910.

This morning, alas! did not fulfil the promise of last night’s sunset, for a drizzling rain was falling when the party collected for breakfast, and we were afraid that not only would the fishing expedition be impossible, but also that the ploughing inspection might have to be postponed, and all were anxious, after the enthusiasm of The Instigator, to see that engine at work.  Our host had sent some men out in the early morning to secure fish for our delectation, but they were unable to spear more than one, and this large aquatic animal was now hanging up under the verandah, causing a great deal of interest to the various curious members of the band; needless to say, The Instigator was busy divesting the fish of scales, examining them under his ubiquitous microscope, and insisting on everyone observing the marvels of Nature shown in this manner.  We think that this was the psychological moment when the rest of the party began to appreciate the powers of that microscope, and insinuations were made to the owner that it would be a pity to take such a beautiful pocket instrument back to Europe, in case any accident should happen to the boat during the voyage, and the microscope be lost.

The Delineator and The Wild Man appeared to be the chief favourites for the prize, and knowing the acquisitive propensities of The Chaperon, all were surprised to note his passiveness during the competition; however, he explained his inertia by saying that his sleep had been disturbed by visions for which no microscope was needed.  He offered to sketch what he had seen, but could give no more definite description in words than “figures on the blind” and “streaming hair,” so he was left alone to recover his nerve.  The Jehu then pointed out that his prophecy had proved correct, and the misty rain had blown off, leaving a clear sky and fine weather, so a start was made en masse for the scene of the ploughing operations.  A slight lameness on the part of one of the steeds made it necessary for the smaller coach to return for change of animals after a few hundred yards.  The Wild Man occupied the few minutes of this delay to the best possible advantage.  The owner of the house and chattels was away, and The Wild Man, stimulated by The Chaperon made a very productive tour of the rooms and verandah, resulting in great satisfaction to himself.