They would not have taken it seriously, and indeed some might consider it only the expression of the natural concern felt by an adult who is responsible for the weak and irresponsible. It was well rented, but the tenantsdid not always pay; and presently a crisis came--a descent of creditors--and John: Clemens at forty-four found himself without business andwithout means. Clemens wrote home: We are perfectly delighted with everything here and do so want you all to see it. I backed away.
The audience found this even more amusing. The happiest of all was Dolly, who trotted round and round the courtyard like someone who had been riding all his life. Jane Clemens declared that his father had got to take him in hand; whichhe did, doubtless impressing the adventure on him in the usual way. There was nothing left of this one but pale bones, splintered and gnawed and disarticulated.
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