In the joy of his heart Mr. Linton could not refuse, and he began to sing Thackeray's "astonishing piece of nonsense." He had a thin quavering voice which suited the air; but somehow or other the song was not a success with this particular audience. Upon 'Melia Jane the effect was alarming. When the singer came to the lines,
"There's little Bill is young and tender,
We're old and tough, so let's eat he,"
she slowly rose from her chair, with horror depicted on her face. The singer went on:
"'O Bill, we're going to kill and eat you,
So undo the collar of your chemie.'
"When Bill received this infumation
He used his pocket-handkerchie.
"'O let me say my catechism,
As my poor mammy taught to me!'"