Uncle Jonas exclaimed;

"Some harm has waylaid them;

Or they're to be blamed.

For I hoped ere this time to have given away

This good dame, who I fear on my hands still must stay.

I bestowed her before, but just like a bad penny

She returns to my pocket, though welcome as any.

For of her and the children it must be allowed

I with justice have reason to be truly proud."

"We had better begin,