"Can you substantiate what you are about to say?"
"I can swear to it, if it is necessary. I waited here only that I might be able to explain everything to my employer, after he should awake."
"You are a fine fellow, now tell me what evil being has entered the woods, and committed this depredation?"
"If you wish to have a full account of the matter, you should tender full payment," said the butler, who considered this play of words exceedingly apt and forcible.
"Yes, yes, I will not be ungenerous," replied Mr. Fabian taking a bank-note from his pocket.
"Carl,—the fool of the valley—purloined the hares and partridges."
"What! that cur!—the son of old Lonner!"
"The same."
"Are you certain?"
"Yes, as certain as I am that I live."