'Yes sir,' moving slightly towards the door as though it was all settled now. 'What other vehicle have you got in the stable?' 'The Phaeton, sir; the open box wagon and the carryall.' 'Very well then, bring the nigh horse round in the carryall.' 'He never went in single harness since I drove Mrs. ----' 'Well, then, put the other one in.' 'Nor him neither, sir.' 'Humph!' it looked a little black. 'Well, where is the other horse, the gray, that your mistress always drives when alone?' 'He is at the veterinary surgeons, sir.--I took him there last Monday and he is to be blistered for two weeks off and on, sir.' 'Well, Thomas, as the coachman of the family, I ask you what can be done. 'I _must_ go out to-night. Can you suggest anything?' 'Nothing but to hire a hack, sir.' 'That's a very good idea, how far is the livery stable from here?' 'Just next to where I live, sir. I can get one in a minute, sir.' Oh! so cheerfully. 'Very well, Thomas, just harness the two bays and ride down there and put them to one. Tell the livery stable keeper that I wish it, and will pay for the use of it.' 'But, sir, it is----' 'Thomas, I would advise you not to be long. You ought to be ashamed to call yourself a coachman, and have what is under your charge in such a condition. The idea of a horse two days without a shoe.' 'It isn't my----' 'Not a word--go and do your duty in future. I shall expect you here in half an hour.' He backed out of the room, longing to say something (what it was I don't care) but completely at sea. As he passed under my window, (though I have not sworn for many years,) I am pretty sure I heard several full sized oaths. At the appointed time the bell rang and I went out and got into the carriage. The horses looked very warm, and, though the night was cold, one was covered with foam. I said nothing, but told him to drive to Susan's sister's. On arriving at the door, I heard sounds of very lively music for a dying child, and saw the house all lighted up. 'Oh, I understand, it is one of those Hibernian wakes. Poor thing!' and I began to pardon Susan, feel sorry for the coachman, and made up my mind to give $10 towards the sepulchral expenses. As I entered the house, surcharged with benevolence and overcome by a repentant feeling, I caught sight of Susan and a strapping man whirling round the floor to the tune of the Irish Washwoman. I approached her and said, 'I hope he is better.' She uttered a scream and ran out of the room.