Mr. Harker, the lad’s father, was greatly pleased at the performance, and passed flattering encomiums on Peace’s skill as an accompanist: indeed, it was in every way creditable, and there was a general murmur of applause as the song was brought to a conclusion.
“Your son has got a beautiful voice,” said our hero, addressing himself to Mr. Harker. “If he perseveres he’ll be a very accomplished vocalist.”
“I am glad to hear you say so, Thompson,” observed Whittock, “for I know you are a competent judge of these matters.”
The conversation was carried on in an animated manner for some little time, after which Peace and Willie Ward played another piece together. Several of the company expressed a wish to hear Mr. Thompson sing. He was in no very good voice, but chanted the following quaint ditty:—
I’ve been thinking—I’ve been thinking
What a world we might possess
Did folks mind their business more,
And mind their neighbours’ less.
For instance, you and I, my friend.
Are sadly prone to talk