on doubtful ones, we may scarcely number it among sensible
beings. However, as it is far quicker on its legs than any
of our race, we humbly suggest, that it is very well adapted
for the situation of a running-camp-footman. Written at our
Seminary at Keba by your Highness' most humble servants.

NEHEK, JOKTAN, RAPASI, KILAK."

I returned sorrowfully to my landlord, and begged of him with tears in
my eyes, to use his influence to alter the nature of my certificate from
the Karatti, and to show them my testimony from the academy of
Copenhagen, in which I was represented as a remarkable student. He
replied to me, "that this diploma might be well enough in Copenhagen,
where probably the shadow was regarded more than the substance: the bark
more than the sap; but here, where the kernel was more important than
aught else, it was of no use."

He counselled me to bear my fate with patience, and assured me, in the
politest manner, of his friendship. Having nothing more to say, I made
ready, without delay, for the journey. There travelled in company with
me several small trees, which had been educated with me in the seminary,
and were now destined to the capital for preferment.

Our leader was an old Karatti, who rode on an ox, because from his age
he could not walk. Our progress was very slow, so that three days were
occupied in our passage. We had a quick and comfortable jaunt, if I
except the meeting with some wild monkeys, that would spring towards me,
and pester me now and then. They evidently supposed me to be one of
their race. I could not suppress my anger, however, when I observed that
the trees seemed to perceive this mistake of the monkeys, which gave the
saplings food for laughter at my expense. I must remark that I was
carried to court in the same dress which I wore on my descent to the
planet, with the boat-hook in my hand and the rope dragging after me.
This was by order of the king, who wished to see me in my own bark.

[Illustration]

[Illustration]

CHAPTER IV.

THE ROYAL COURT OF POTU.

At last, we entered the large and splendid capital of the kingdom of
Potu.

We were first carried to a house, where all students from the country
seminaries are received, for the purpose of refreshment. Here we
prepared for an interview with the king. In the mean time our Karatti,
or leader went before to announce us to the court. On his return, we
were all ordered to follow him.