"Some of these days the skies will be brighter,
Some of these days the burdens be lighter;
Hearts will be happier, souls will be whiter,
Some of these days,
Some of these days."
—Frank L. Stanton.
"There, Beatrice, that will do for today." Doctor Raymond laid aside his manuscript with a sigh of satisfaction. "The Purple Emperor is a fitting close for our day's work. I think there is no place in Natural History where rank is of so much importance as among butterflies. His Majesty is easily king of the lot."
He picked up the Denton frame in which the insect was mounted, and looked at it smilingly.
"I never see the Emperor," he continued reflectively, "that I do not think of Peter Pindar's Ode to The Emperor of Morocco and Sir Joseph Banks. Of course it is a hit at scientists, but it is amusing for all that. Have either of you read it?"
"Yes;" spoke Bee eagerly. "At least, I have heard it read, father. Professor Lawrence read it to the class one day."
Doctor Raymond frowned. Bee had not yet learned that there are occasions when ignorance is bliss. No one likes to have either his anecdotes or witticisms anticipated. She might have said with perfect sincerity:
"Yes, father; but I should like to hear it again."
"Well, I haven't heard it at all," said Adele prettily. "I am not so learned as Bee."