"When I say three, do you let go suddenly," my friend exclaimed.
I was only too willing.
"One."
"Two."
It seemed an age between the monosyllables, yet I held on patiently.
"Three."
I released my hold, and Mr. Brown, with a quick movement of his hand, dashed the reptile to the ground, and stamped upon it with his heavy boots.
"Now let us see what species it is," he said, kicking it towards the fire. A moment's examination, and a hearty laugh set my fears at rest.
"You might have slept with a dozen beneath you, and no harm would have happened. It is nothing but a green snake, and a small one at that."