"I can't tell that to you," replied the old man, shaking his head sadly. "It's the story of 'How Katy Did.' I have to be very careful, for Mr. John Burroughs, who is a wiser old man than I am, says I mustn't. Lately the scientists almost killed one man I know, and a good, clever, useful man, for telling that story—very savage, very savage."
The children began to look troubled. "Will Mr. Burroughs hurt us?" inquired Hope. "My papa would—"
"No, no, child, you're too small. He likes something big, and he's especially fond of the Big Stick."
"Is that what he does his beating with?" Jack's eyes were frightened.
"He hunts with the Big Stick," answered the guide. "Dear me, where are we? It's half-past eight, and you children should have been in bed this time long, long ago. Hurry! Skip! Get the lanterns or we'll all be scolded."
And they scampered for the village, the guide driving them before him, and all the lights waving to and fro like so many crazy fireflies.