posed to them; several questions they would not, which are omitted here." What could have been the matter? What had been done to put the dark beauties out of temper? Did some get more praise and pudding than others? One thing we do know—the gentler sex won the day, for the young men had to come to the rescue, and take up the questions.
After more Scripture, the lads were taken to the secular. They were examined in addition, and information was volunteered to the chairman that some could write large hand.
The examination ought to have proceeded next day, but for circumstances mentioned in the story: "Reassembled this morning at 10 o'clock. Maryann (afterwards the half-caste wife of Walter) did not attend with her class, and information was received that the females were washing their clothes, and the native men were at a distance from the settlement, where they had remained all night, making a road. Adjourned till tomorrow."
It may be that some officials thought the catechism, after lasting three or four days, was too much for the men, and had sent them off to work; while the women, obeying the laws of feminine civilized nature, had embraced the opportunity of attending to their linen, which important personal duty could not give place to literature.
A crowd of sovereigns appeared on the following day. The truth must be told that they least distinguished themselves. King Alfred, however, was perfect in his alphabet, and could tell who made him. King George knew the first man, and who made the trees and tall mountain, but was not troubled with more questions. King Alpha was content with playing ditto to his royal brother George, and said that God made the tall mountain. But Napoleon rushed boldly forth to the front, with ready replies, after attempting to spell. It is very unsatisfactory, however, to quote a remark upon this conqueror: "This native attends school but very seldom, and is not improving. Mr. Dove addressed him very feelingly on his neglect of instruction." Poor fellow! he lived but little time to profit by the White man's teaching.
One Andrew is made to say that he likes to be a good man, that he loves to go to heaven, and that he prays in his house every night. He counts to eighteen, and repeats the Lord's
