hinking
that in a zoological garden all the animals have to do is to walk about
and be looked at. That would be very nice for dear Palikare!

"An affair with the Government," said Grain-of-Salt; "better not, 'cause
the Government...."

From his expression it was evident that Grain-of-Salt had no faith in
the Government.

From now on the traffic was intense. Perrine needed all her wits and
eyes about her. After what seemed a long time they arrived at the Market
and Grain-of-Salt jumped off the donkey. But while he was getting down
Palikare had time to gaze about him, and when Perrine tried to make him
go through the iron gate at the entrance he refused to budge.

He seemed to know by instinct that this was a market where horses and
donkeys were sold. He was afraid. Perrine coaxed him, commanded him,
begged him, but he still refused to move. Grain-of-Salt thought that if
he pushed him from behind he would go forward, but Palikare, who would
not permit such familiarity, backed and reared, dragging Perrine with
him.

There was already a small circle of onlookers around them. In the first
row, as usual, there were messenger boys and errand boys, each giving
his word of advice as to what means to use to force the donkey through
the gate.

"That there donkey is going to give some trouble to the fool who buys
him," cried one.

These were dangerous words that might affect the sale, so Grain-of-Salt
thought he ought to say something.

"He's the cleverest donkey that ever was!" he cried. "He knows he's
going to be sold, and he's doin' this 'cause he loves us and don't want
ter leave us!"

"Are you so sure of that, Grain-of-Salt?" called out a voice in the
crowd.

"Zooks! who knows my name here?" cried the one addressed.

"Don't you recognize La Rouquerie?"

"My faith, that's so," he cried, as the speaker came forward. They shook
hands.

"That donkey yours?"

"No; it belongs to this little gal."

"Do you know anything about it?"

"We've had more than one glass together, and if you want a good donkey
I'll speak for him."

"I need one and yet I don't need one," said La Rouquerie.

"Well, come and take a drink. 'Tain't worthwhile to pay for a place in
the Market...."

"Especially if he won't budge!"

"I told you he was a smart one; he's that intelligent."

"If I buy him it's not for his tricks nor 'cause he can take a drink
with one, but he must work."

"He can work, sure! He's come all the way from Gre