PETER AND TOMMY.

Peter.—I say, Tommy, where did you get that new hat you have on your head?

Tommy.—What business is that of yours?

Peter.—Oh, I want to learn, that's all. I may be wanting to get a hat of that kind myself, you know. Is it the latest style?

Tommy.—Look here, young one: I sha'n't stand any of your chaffing. As soon as I get through with my bread and butter, I shall take hold of you.

Peter.—Your bark is worse than your bite, Tommy. I shouldn't wonder if you were to come off second best in a square fight.

Tommy.—Be off, Peter, and let me eat my bread and butter in peace.

Peter.—It seems to me it would be good manners to offer me a bite.

Tommy.—You'll provoke me, Peter, to give you a thrashing.

Peter.—My advice is that you don't try it on.

Tommy.—Peter, you are a little upstart. I should leave nothing of you, if I once took hold of you in earnest.

Peter.—It's a hot day, Tommy, and the wisest thing you can do is to share your slice with me. I am very hungry.

Tommy.—Oh, if you're hungry, that alters the case. Sit down, Peter, and you shall have a good bite.

Peter.—Ah! That tastes nice. Now, Tommy, explain about that hat of yours.

Tommy.—That's my secret, Peter. I sha'n't tell it.

Peter.—I can guess it. It's only a basket.

Tommy.—What a wise Peter you are! And to think you've had no schooling as yet!

UNCLE CHARLES.