This happened early in the afternoon. Remember this; for if we are not particular in our chronology, we are naught.
Gus turned to the advertisements. He read, among other things, a testimonial to a great corn-cutter, from a potentate who keeps a very small army, and don't mean any harm:—
"(TRANSLATION.)
"Professor Homberg has cut my corns with a dexterity truly marvellous.
(Signed) "Napoleon."
From a country baronet:—
"I am satisfied with Professor Homberg.
(Signed) "Pitchcroft Cockpole, Bart."
From a bishop in the South Sea Islands:—
"Professor Homberg has cut my corns in a manner which does equal honour to his head and his heart.
(Signed) "Rangehaieta."
(His real name is Jones, but that is neither here nor there); and in the mean time Flora had been studying a certain part of "King Lear."
Later in the afternoon, it occurred to Gus that he would like to be a corn-cutter and have testimonials. He proposed to cut nurse's corns, but she declined, assigning reasons. Failing here, he determined to cut Flora's doll's corns, and, with this view, possessed himself of her person during Flora's temporary absence.