I said, "My love, on such a meal
I'd dine with pleasure, daily.

When I but think of you, dear girl,
I pity those fine misses

Who turn their noses up and pout
At bread-and-cheese and kisses.

"And when I look on your dear form,
And on your face so homely;

And when I look in your dear eyes,
And on your dress so comely;

And when I hold you in my arms,
I laugh at Fortune's misses.

I'm blessed in you, content with you,
And bread-and-cheese and kisses."

Thus ended the happy day.

CHAPTER IX.

MINNIE AND HER SHELL.