“If,” said the Philosopher, “these people steal both from sheep and from men, if their peculations range from wool to money, I do not see how they can avoid stealing from each other, and consequently, if anywhere, it is amongst jackdaws one should look for the growth of a police force, but there is no such force in existence. The real reason is that they are a witty and thoughtful race who look temperately on what is known as crime and evil—one eats, one steals; it is all in the order of things, and therefore not to be quarrelled with. There is no other view possible to a philosophical people—” “What the devil is he talking about?” said the sergeant. “Monkeys are gregarious and thievish and semi-human. They inhabit the equatorial latitudes and eat nuts—” “Do you know what he is saying, Shawn?” “I do not,” said Shawn. “—they ought to have evolved professional thief-takers, but it is common knowledge that they have not done so. Fishes, squirrels, rats, beavers, and bison have also abstained from this singular growth—therefore, when I insist that I see no necessity for policemen and object to their presence, I base that objection on logic and facts, and not on any immediate petty prejudice.” “Shawn,” said the sergeant, “have you got a good grip on that man?” “I have,” said Shawn. “Well, if he talks any more hit him with your baton.” “I will so,” said Shawn. “There’s a speck of light down yonder, and, maybe, it’s a candle in a window—we’ll ask the way at that place.” In about three minutes they came to a small house which was overhung by trees. If the light had not been visible they would undoubtedly have passed it in the darkness. As they approached the door the sound of a female voice came to them scoldingly. “There’s somebody up anyhow,” said the sergeant, and he tapped at the door. The scolding voice ceased instantly. After a few seconds he tapped again; then a voice was heard from just behind the door. “Tomas,” said the voice, “go and bring up the two dogs with you before I take the door off the chain.” The door was then opened a few inches and a face peered out “What would you be wanting at this hour of the night?” said the woman. “Not much, ma’am,” said the sergeant; “only a little direction about the road, for we are not sure whether we’ve gone too far or not far enough.” The woman noticed their uniforms. “Is it policemen ye are? There’s no harm in your coming in, I suppose, and if a drink of milk is any good to ye I have plenty of it.” “Milk’s better than nothing,” said the sergeant with a sigh. “I’ve a little sup of spirits,” said she, “but it wouldn’t be enough to go around.” “Ah, well,” said he, looking sternly at his comrades, “everybody has to take their chance in this world,” and he stepped into the house followed by his men. The women gave him a little sup of whisky from a bottle, and to each of the other men she gave a cup of milk. “It’ll wash the dust out of our gullets, anyhow,” said one of them.