“That's good! I'm tired o' bein' sorry for myself, an' glad to have some one 'tend to that part o' my business.”
He called the dog to his feet, put a hand on his head, and introduced him in this manner:
“This is my friend and fellow-citizen, Mr. Barker—Adam Barker bein' his full name. You see before you the firm of Pearl & Company.”
I smiled, and thought him an odd man.
“Mr. Barker, please take the floor,” he commanded.
The dog stood on his hind feet with a look of eager expectancy.
“Mr. Barker, I swear to you that hereafter I will be worthy of your love,” said the stranger. “Shall the firm continue? Those in favor will please say aye.”
The dog gave a bark, and his master said: “It seems to be carried; it is carried. Is there any further business to come before this meetin'?”
Mr. Barker answered.
“Then we stand adjourned,” said the man, whereupon the dog began to jump playfully. “Pearl & Company are now ready to resume business.”