THE STORY OF AN UMBRELLA.

Wanganui Herald, Volume XXXX, Issue 11974, 18 September 1906, Page 2

THE STORY OF AN UMBRELLA.

An amusing 6tory is at present going the rounds of Mornington tea-tables, says tho " Otago Daily Times," and is best appreciated by those who know the irreproachable character of the lady who figures most prominently in the narration. This lady paid a visit to the city recently, but, although spring showers were predicted, did not take an umbrella with her, as she had lelt three in town lor repairs and intended bringing them back with her. After making some purchases at one of the principal drapers, she unconsciously took up a lady's umbrella standing against the counter at which she was served, and le'it the premises, but had not gone far before she felt a tap on the shoulder, and on turning round found herself lace to face with another lady, who in rather severe tones said, " You have taken my umbrella, I think." Of course ample apologies were tendered and accepted. In due couise the owner of the three umbrellas called for them, and boarded a Mornington tram to return home. The other lady, as ill-luck would have it, was also a passenger by the car."' Both alighted at the same stopping' place. One of them keenly felt that circumstantial • evidence was strongly her, and wondered what on earth the other would think, seeing her with three umbrellas." The owner of these set her 1 face homeward, but had not gone far before she felt a tap on the shoulder, followed by the sarcastic remark, " Oh ! I see you have done very well, although you did not succeed in getting my umbrella !" Indignation kept the innocent lady silent for the time, but since then she has quite enjoyed telling the joke to her friends.