'Way down on Pigeon Pond Island,
When daddy comes home from swilein'
Maggoty fish hung up in the air,
Fried in maggoty butter;
Cakes an' tea for breakfast,
Pork an' duff for dinner,
Cakes an' tea for supper—
'Way down on Pigeon Pond Island,
When daddy comes home from swilein'.[1]
Whatever was bitter and inimical in the wind and dark and driving mist of snow was chased out of mind by the warm fire and companionable behaviour.
It was comfortable on the ice: it was a picnic—a bright adventure; and Teddy Brisk was as cozy and dry and content as——
"I likes it, Billy," said he. "I jus' fair loves it here!"
"You does, b'y? I'm proud o' you!"
"'Way out here on the ice. Mm-m! Yes, sirree! I'm havin' a wonderful happy time, Billy."
"I'm glad o' that now!"
"An' I feels safe——"
"Aye, b'y!"
"An' I'm's warm——"