Why, Snark's that stiff, Miss, that he wouldn't deliver the King of England if he hadn't the desire."
Now it was pretty plain that I had not adopted a sufficient humility of tone towards the celebrated Mr. Snark. Therefore did I speed to change my tactics, and now besought his aid with great and meek solicitude. This so far succeeded that, presently, he unbent sufficiently to say that three hundred pounds would be his fee, payable forthwith. This latter clause was something of a shock. To trust persons of his kidney with their pay before they earn it, is generally fatal to their promises. Yet Mr. Snark's high reputation had made him in every way so jealous of it, and so sensitive to any slight upon his pride, that it was impossible to demur to his demand and yet keep him in an accommodating humour. Therefore with a sinking heart did I conclude the bargain, and repose my faith in that incalculable Providence that presides over all natural affairs. So soon as the money was jingling in his hands he prepared to take his leave.
"Thank ye, Miss," says he; "but don't forget that Snark conducts this matter at a sacrifice. He likes your solid hearty buxom face, which is the reason for his kindness. For it's Snark's opinion that this young rebel man o' yours is on'y a beginner, and that his picter won't be put into the Calender. But let me see now. The execution is fixed up for the twenty-sixth at ten o'clock in the morning. Well, that'll suit Snark handsomely. An' I
