"What!" said the Professor.
"The tail of his coat," said Toney. "Dove took refuge among the branches of the tree.
"After awhile Juba entered the room showing his ivory and exhibiting a piece of broadcloth, which he held in his hand as a trophy.
"'What is that?' asked the widow.
"'Dunno, ma'am,—I tuk it from Trouncer.'
"'Let me look,' said I. 'Why, it's Dove's tail!'
"The widow shrieked with laughter, and Rosabel hid her face on the cushion of the sofa and shook as if she had an ague. I put my hand in the pocket and drew out a number of papers.
"'What are those?' said the widow.
"'Love-letters,' said I. 'Here, Rosabel, you can read them.'
"'And those?' said the widow.