On Duty.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXVIII, Issue VIII, 22 February 1902, Page 383

On Duty.

Uncle Alec came out into the garden, and was just going to seat himself in the summer house when he spied a large spider in its web. He

went closer to look at it, and presently called Neddie, who was playing near by. “1 can’t come now, uncle,” replied Neddie: “rm on duty.” "What are you doing?” asked Uncle Alec. “I’m a sentinel keeping guard." said Neddie. "Can’t you come over here just a minute if I wateh for you?’ "No. indeed!" answered Neddie, firmly. “Well, well." said Uncle Alec, quite

amused, as he sat down to read his paper. 'l'lie next day Neddie’s mother called him, and asked him to go to the village for some currants and sugar, and told him to be sure and not be long. About ten minutes afterwards Uncle Alec started for the post office. When he reached the little brook, which had to be crossed to get to the village, he saw Neddie standing on Ihe bridge throwing stones into the water.

"Hullo, Neddie,” he said; “I thought you were on duty.” “Oh. no. uncle, mother sent me on an errand.” “Did she send you to throw stones in the brook?” "No, sir. She sent me to get some currants.” Then Neddie looked steadily in his uncle's face for a moment or two. and then, turning towards the village. he was off like a flash. You see. he realised he was on duty.