aved on it in letters six inches long. As usual, he
said not a word in reply to the invitation of his friends, but nodded
his head at them instead, until he nearly nodded it off; and so, being
all of one mind, our philosophers locked up their studies, put on their
five-cornered caps, and taking their gold-headed canes and their note
books, to be ready to put down any new fact that might turn up, started
off for a country ramble.

At first they walked along quietly enough, admiring the prospect, and
enjoying the fresh air; but after a few moments, Dr. Sheepshanks could
no longer resist the desire to put his new theory of health into
practice.

"Really," he began, "it would be much better for us always to pursue our
studies in the open air. Science teaches us that the most healthy people
are the wild Indians--those children of nature, who live under the
trees, dine off fresh fruits, and take plenty of exercise. Let us be
children of nature, my friends, and improve our health by running to
that tree," pointing to one at some distance.

Accordingly, the philosopher started off at an amble, followed by his
companions, who, with dressing gowns flying in the wind, and books
flying, out of their pockets every minute, presented rather ridiculous
spectacles. They were so deeply engaged that they did not see Dr.
Mumbudget quietly walking along behind, picking up their scattered
property.

So far so good; but unhappily, not being accustomed to the habits of
children of nature, this sudden introduction to the true mode of life
discomposed our learned doctors in no small degree. Fairly aching from
head to foot with fatigue, Dr. Sheepshanks was the first to pause, so
out of breath that he could hardly speak, yet exclaiming, with a beaming
face, "Ah! you may depend, gentlemen, that the only way to enjoy life is
to take plenty of exercise!"

This was drawing rather too hard on the patience of his friends, after
what they had just endured, and Dr. Skihi exclaimed, rather crossly,
"At the same time, your exercise is a famous thing to make one thirsty!
I would give a great deal to obtain a drink of spring water; but that is
impossible at present."

"Impossible! why, there is nothing easier!" said Dr. Smelfungus.
"Science teaches us that some vegetables are nearly all water; turnips,
for instance. All you have to do is to get a turnip and express the
juice, and there's your drink of water."

"How about going to a well?" said Mumbud