THE HUDSON 's BA Y FUR COMPANY. 1 3 Mrs Paulina Barnett was now well informed as to the ulterior projects of the celebrated Company. Captain Craventy had given her a graphic sketch of the situation, and it is probable he would have entered into further details, had not an incident cut short his harangue. Corporal Joliffe announced in a loud voice that, with Mrs Joliffe's assistance, he was about to mix the punch. This news was received as it deserved. The bowl — or rather, the basin — was filled with the precious liquid. It contained no less than ten pints of coarse rum. Sugar, measured out by Mrs Joliflfe, was piled up at the bottom, and on the top floated slices of lemon shrivelled with' age. Nothing remained to be done but to light this alcoholic hike, and the Corporal, match in hand, awaited the order of his Captain, as if he were about to spring a mine. "All right, Joliffe !" at last said Captain Craventy. The light was applied to the bowl, and in a moment the punch was in flames, whilst the guests applauded and clapped their hands. Ten minutes afterwards, full glasses of the delightful beverage were circulating amongst the guests, fresh bidders for them coming for- ward in endless succession, like speculators on the Stock Exchange. " Hurrah ! hurrah ! hurrah I three cheers for Mrs Barnett ! A cheer for the Captain." In the midst of these joyful shouts cries were heard from outside. Silence immediately fell upon the company assembled. "Sergeant Long," said the Captain, "go and see what is the matter." And at his chiefs order, the Sergeant, leaving his glass unfinished, left the room.
