All this time b.u.t.tons was more joyous, more radiant, and altogether more extravagant than usual. The others asked themselves, "Why?"

In the course of the evening it became known. Taking advantage of a short pause in the conversation he communicated the startling fact that he had that day received a letter from his father.

"Shall I read it?"

"AYE!!!" unanimously, in tones of thunder.

b.u.t.tons opened it and read:

DEAR SON.--Your esteemed favor, 15th ult., I have recd.

"I beg leave hereby to express my concurrence with your design.

"My connection with the house of Francia has been of the most satisfactory kind. I have no doubt that yours will be equally so.

"I inclose you draft on Mess. Dupont Geraud, et Cie of Paris, for $5000--say five thousand dollars--rect of which please acknowledge.

If this sum is insufficient you are at liberty to draw for what may be required.

"I remain, HIRAM b.u.t.tONS."

Thunders of applause arose as b.u.t.tons folded the letter.

A speech from the Senator proposed health of b.u.t.tons Senior.

Another from the Doctor.

Another from Mr. Figgs.

Acknowledgment by b.u.t.tons.

Announcement by b.u.t.tons of immediate departure for Cadiz.

Wild cheers! b.u.t.tons's jolly good health!

"For he's a jolly good fe-e-e-e-e-e-llow!

For he's a jolly good fe-e-e-e-f-e-llow!!

For he's a jolly good FE-E-E-E-E-E-LLOW!!!

Which n.o.body can deny!"

THE END.