"'Hush!' cried Arthur, impatiently. 'Why do you want to spoil the night with such wailing?'
"'I have lost three lovely little owlets,' was the response. 'Darling little fluffy cherubs! Never had an owl-mother three such beauties!'
"'Where are they?' asked Arthur.
"'Devoured by a horrible night-hawk,' sobbed the owl.
"'Where has the night-hawk flown?'
"'Far down the river after prey.'
"'Why do you not go after him and punish him?'
"'It is too far, and I am too sorrowful.'
"'You have no spirit. I would peck his eyes out were I in your place.'
"'Ah! you are young and strong and brave.'