l this is but assertion," replied I; "where are your proofs?"

"In the Bible; some day or other I will show them to you; but now we are
at the camp, and I am anxious to embrace Nattee."

I thought for some time upon this singular creed; one, in itself, not
militating against religion, but at the same time I could not call to
mind any passages by which it could be supported. Still the idea was
beautiful, and I dwelt upon it with pleasure. I have before observed,
and indeed the reader must have gathered from my narrative, that
Melchior was no common personage. Every day did I become more partial
to him, and more pleased with our erratic life. What scruples I had at
first, gradually wore away; the time passed quickly, and although I
would occasionally call to mind the original object of my setting forth,
I would satisfy myself by the reflection, that there was yet sufficient
time. Little Fleta was now my constant companion when in the camp, and
I amused myself with teaching her to write and read.

"Japhet," said Timothy to me one day as we were cutting hazel broach
wood in the forest, "I don't see that you get on very fast in your
search after your father."

"No, Tim, I do not; but I am gaining a knowledge of the world which will
be very useful to me when I recommence the search; and what is more, I
am saving a great deal of money to enable me to prosecute it."

"What did Melchior give you after we left?"

"Twenty guineas, which, with what I had before, make more than fifty."

"And he gave me ten, which makes twenty, with what I had before.
Seventy pounds is a large sum."

"Yes, but soon spent, Tim. We must work a little longer. Besides, I
cannot leave that little girl--she was never intended for a
rope-dancer."

"I am glad to hear you say that, Japhet, for I feel as you do--she shall
share our fortunes."

"A glorious prospect truly," replied I, laughing; "but never mind, it
would be better than her remaining here. But how are we to manage
that?"

"Ay! that's the rub; but there is time enough to think about it when we
intend to quit our present occupation."

"Well, I understand from Melchior that we are to start in a few days?"

"What is it to be, Japhet?"

"Oh! we shall be at home--we are to cure all diseases under the sun.
To-morrow we commence making pills, so we may think ourselves with Mr
Cophagus again."

"Well, I do think we shall have some fun; but I hope Melchior won't make
me take my ow