observed by
the eager frequenters of the tow-path carrying their trim-built ship
to the water's edge. Not many moments were cut to waste before each
man had safely ensconced himself on the thwart built for him under the
experienced eyes of the champion boat-builder. The men looked, it must
in all fairness be admitted, in the high level of condition. In each
eye there blazed a stern determination to do or die on every possible
occasion. When the signal to start was given, the boat was observed
to move with the bounding speed of a highly-trained greyhound. The
oars dipped into the water like one man, though a marked inclination
was observed on the part of two or three of the oarsmen to "hurry,"
while the rest seemed equally disposed to be "late." A few fatherly
words from the prince of modern coaches soon had the desired effect
of placing matters on a more completely satisfactory footing. The
suggestion often made in these columns that a swifter rate of striking
should be introduced, was acted upon. The boat moved with perfect
evenness, while the wavelets played round her like young dolphins out
for a holiday.

I need only add that our old friend Jupiter Pluvius proved once again
to be a kind friend to those who tempted the dangers of the foaming
tide in Putney Reach. In conclusion, it must be observed that the
stroke was sometimes "short" and occasionally "long," but the "slides"
moved like things of life, and contributed greatly to the pleasure of
a very enjoyable outing.

* * * * *

DESTROYING THE SPIDER'S WEB;

_OR, THE THIRTEENTH LABOUR OF HERSCHELLES._

"To Lion-Hearted Hercules," the strong,
Sounded the clarion of Homeric song.
"Alcides, forcefullest of all the brood
Of men enforced with need of earthly food."
_Punch_ will sing gallant Herschelles, than whom
Who was more worthy of Alcmene's womb
Or Jovian parentage? Behold him stand
With lion-hide on loins, and club in hand!
Forceful and formidable to all foes,
But fatal most especially to those
Of Hydra presence and Stymphalian beak,
Whose quarry is unseasoned youth, who seek
By subtle snares the Infant's steps to trip,
And catch the Minor in their harpy grip.
To his Twelve Labours, against monsters grim,
Who might have lived in safety but for him,
To snare, to slay, to humbug, and to cozen,
Herschelles, just to make a baker's dozen,
Adds a Thirteenth!
A wily,