"But," said Ralph, "Osborne never will allow the least merit in anything of mine, but makes a thousand criticisms, out of mere envy. He will do so with that piece, I have no doubt."
"If he does, it will prove that he is prejudiced against you, or is no judge of poetry," replied Benjamin.
"I have a plan to test him," continued Ralph. "He is not so jealous of you; I wish, therefore, you would take this piece and produce it as yours. I will make some excuse and have nothing. We shall then hear what he will say to it."
"I will do it," answered Benjamin, who was well convinced that Osborne was prejudiced against Ralph; "but I must transcribe it, so that it will appear in my own handwriting."
"Certainly; and be careful that you don't let the secret out."
They met at the appointed time. Watson was the first to read his performance. Osborne came next, and his piece was much better than Watson's. Ralph noticed two or three blemishes, but pointed out many beauties in it.
"I have nothing to read," said Ralph, whose turn came next in order. "I will try to do my part next time."
"Poets ought to be ready at any time," remarked Osborne jestingly. "Well, then, Ben, let us have yours."
"I rather think I must be excused," answered Benjamin, feigning an unwillingness to read.
"No excuse for you," said Osborne. "You have it written, for I saw it in your hand."