Another elephant, a much younger animal, was now to follow. He had watched the ascent of the other with the most intense interest, making motions all the while, as though he was assisting him by shouldering him up the acclivity; such gestures as I have seen some men make, when spectators of gymnastic exercises. When he saw his comrade up, he evinced his pleasure by giving a salute something like the sound of a trumpet. When called upon to take his turn, he seemed much alarmed, and would not act at all without force. When he was two steps up, he slipped, but recovered himself by digging his toes in the earth. With the exception of this little accident, he ascended exceedingly well. When this elephant was near the top, the other, who had already performed his task, extended his trunk to the assistance of his brother in distress, round which the young animal entwined his, and thus reached the summit of the ghaut in safety. Having both accomplished their task, their greeting was as cordial as if they had been long separated from each other, and had just escaped from some perilous achievement. They mutually embraced each other, and stood face to face for a considerable time, as if whispering congratulations. Their driver then made them salam or bow to the general, who ordered them five rupees each for sweetmeats. On this reward of their merit being ordered, they immediately returned thanks by another salam. WHISTLING TOM; A FORECASTLE BALLAD. MUSIC AND WORDS COMPOSED FOR MERRY’S MUSEUM. [Illustration: Music] 1 Did you never hear of poor whistling Tom, A sailor who loved the sea? As brave as a lion was whistling Tom, And blithe as a lark was he! 2 A gale was a frolic to poor old Tom,―― He called it a cracking breeze,―― And gaily he whistled whenever the blast Drove the maddened ship o’er the seas. 3 His trill was soft as a nightingale’s song, Yet you heard it above the roar: Though the vessel dashed and the billow flashed, Tom only whistled the more. 4 If reefing a topsail that shivered aloft,―― While the yards dipped deep in the spray,―― Like a careless bird in his stormy swing, He whistled and worked away. 5 But the bravest must die, and poor old Tom One night made the wave his pillow―― He sleeps there yet, though he whistles oft, When the tempest lashes the billow. 6 I have heard his note in the midst of the blast―― It wailed like a spirit’s tone―― He seemed aloft on the staggering mast, And whistled――“poor Tom’s alone!” 7