MR. STUBBS'S BROTHER.[2]
BY JAMES OTIS,
Author of "Toby Tyler," "Tim and Tip," etc.
Chapter XVII.
DRIVING A MONKEY.
For an hour this tantalizing work was continued, and the pursuers were nearly exhausted. Leander, who was naturally a very slow-moving boy, was more quickly tired than the others. When for at least the twentieth time they thought they had the monkey within their grasp, and he darted to the top of one of the tallest trees, Leander declared he could not take another step, even though the life of the monkey and the success of the circus depended upon it.
Of course it was not to be thought of that they should leave their band there exhausted and alone, so Toby decided they should rest as long as Mr. Stubbs's brother remained in the tree, and it was determined to occupy the time by eating the luncheon Aunt Olive had prepared.
During the last ten minutes of the chase Leander's face had worn a very gloomy expression; but it lightened wonderfully when the package of food was opened, and Toby helped him to a large slice of bread and meat.
Nor was Leander the only one who looked with favor upon the food. Mr. Stubbs's brother had been a close observer of all that was going on at the foot of the tree in which he had taken refuge, and he showed every disposition to make one of the eating party.