Slidder

"Slidder," said I sternly, and losing patience under the boy's presumption, "you must never again dare to speak of such a thing.

My Doggie and I 1859

"True, Slidder; it had not occurred to me in that light," said I, laughing heartily, as much at the cool and quiet insolence of the waif's manner as at his suggestion.

My Doggie and I 1859

"Won't you sell 'im back?" said Slidder, returning.

My Doggie and I 1859

When I rose to go, Slidder said he would call Mrs Jones to mount guard, and give me a convoy home.

My Doggie and I 1859

Slidder is no longer a boy, but has become a man and a butler.

My Doggie and I 1859

"Not quite so unaccountable as you think," interrupted Slidder, who stood looking calmly on, with his hands in his pockets and a grin on his face.

My Doggie and I 1859

Saying this, young Slidder began to eat another muffin with a degree of zest that seemed to give the lie direct to his assertion, so that I could not refrain from observing that he did not seem to be particularly ill.

My Doggie and I 1859

"No, granny," said I, "you're not foolish," -- ( "Contrariwise, wery much the reverse," interrupted Slidder) -- "and I'm glad that I chanced to come in, because, perhaps, I may be able to prescribe for you as well as he."

My Doggie and I 1859

"Stuck again!" murmured Slidder, in a tone of disgust.

My Doggie and I 1859

"Thanks to _you_, sir," replied Slidder, with a familiar nod; "they do say I'm lookin 'up."

My Doggie and I 1859