such a formal speech, but
she knew that she was showing the quality called "tact," which is
something very useful in a hostess. To tell one's guests what they are
expected to talk about is often a great convenience to them.

But Mr. Esop, the moment he heard the name, drew back with an air that
was quite chilling and businesslike.

"Another of those early Romans out of a job! He has just discovered that
he is a Fable and is looking for a situation." Then turning to Uncle
Remus he said, "I'm very particular about my Fables, and I want
everything straight and plain so that parents may have no hesitation in
bringing their children. I don't like to mix up Myths with my Fables,
for the chances are that the Mythical Personage, instead of having a
Moral, may turn out to be only a Sign of the Zodiac. This is always
confusing to the Public. I suppose, Mr. Remus, that you have brought Mr.
Romulus with you. In the case of twins, I give no consideration, if I'm
offered only a broken lot. I must have the full set, Mr. Remus."

[Illustration: "_I must have the full set_"]

Uncle Remus's feelings would have been much hurt if he had not at that
moment caught sight of Mowgli accompanied by Baloo and Bagheera. Just
how it happened Miss Muffet could never find out, but before she had
time to introduce them they had become fast friends, and Uncle Remus
only chuckled when she asked him if she might have the pleasure of
making them acquainted.

"Nebber you mind 'bout us, we mus' hab met befo'. I disremember whar,
but it mus' hab been somewhar down de big road."

And the old man laughed at the thought that there ever was a time when
he didn't know Mowgli.

At the mention of the big road Mowgli began to sing the "Road Song of
the Bandar-log." It was a very strange song, and not at all like those
that her music teacher taught her, but for all that Miss Muffet felt
that it was just the kind of a song she would sing if she were a
Bandar-log.

Uncle Remus was in an ecstasy, and the Little Boy shouted for joy. Every
one praised it except Sandford and Merton, who said that it didn't give
any useful information except that monkeys had tails, a fact which was
already well known, being mentioned in all the Natural History books.
For their part, when it came to poetry they preferred some fine passages
in Dr. Young's "Night Thoughts."

A great many boys and girls who were on their way to the pavilion had
remained outside listening to a pleasan