Not so Far Out.—"The Court of Chancery," wrote another, "is called this because they take care of property there on the chance of an owner turning up."
Short Title and Description.—"The Five Mile Act was passed," according to one youthful historian, "by Queen Victoria to prevent loafing and drunkenness in public-houses. People must prove that they had travelled five miles before they would be supplied with beer and spirits. This made people ashamed to get so drunk as before." The youthful essayist is clearly muddling "the bona fide traveller" clause with the provisions of a much more ancient statute.
Rough on the Barber.—Teacher (after class had read of St. Paul's adventures among the "barbarians of Melita"): "What is a Barbarian?" Pupil: "A man who cuts hair, sir!"
A New Axiom.—In the Euclid lesson the teacher asked, after explaining the meaning of An Axiom, if a boy could give one of his own. A lad replied: "When you are in the middle you are half-way over." And who shall say him nay?
A Mediator.—"Well, John," asked the master, "what is a Mediator?" John's face beamed knowingly: "A fellow who says hit me instead!" he promptly retorted.