Sir Asinus shrunk back into the extremest corner, and cast an imploring look upon the Governor, who shook with laughter.
"Yes, yes, your Excellency," said the Doctor; "I have been inhaling this delightful May morning with quite a youthful gusto."
"Riding for exercise, Doctor? An excellent idea."
"No, sir; I went a little way into the country to see a pupil."
"You saw him?"
"No, your Excellency."
"Why, that was very hard—a great reprobate, I fear."
"No; a wild young man who has lately deserted his Alma Mater."
"A heinous offence! I advise you to proceed against him for holding out in contumaciam."
"Ah!" said the Doctor, "we must follow the old receipt for cooking a hare in the present instance. We must first catch the offender."