‘Well, you see, the agreement between your son and Mumkie was that Mumkie should have all the live stock of the farm, and as I’m alive I suppose I’m part of the live stock.’
‘I suppose you are,’ said the King.
Just at that moment a voice was heard outside, saying:
‘May I come in?’
‘Oh yes, come in,’ said the King.
And Mumkie entered, looking very dirty and black with coal-dust, for, you see, he had spent the night in the coal-cellar. They were all very much surprised, and naturally too, and the King remarked:
‘Good-morning! Have you washed?’
Mumkie shook his head.
‘I’ve been watched—only it’s not quite the same thing, your Majesty.’
‘Well, never mind. So there’s been a revolt, has there?’