"_I_ never had an adventure like that,
because I am awfully careful about what I eat and drink, and I roost at
chicken-time. There's no telling what will happen to a man when he
violates Nature's laws. Night is made for sleep, and the three hours
before midnight count for more than all the rest."
"And yet, Colonel," remonstrated Van Rensselaer, "by your own admission
just now----"
"You mean my outing with the 'Jewels,' I suppose. That, my friend, is
the solitary exception that proves the rule. That little adventure
simply confirmed yours truly in his belief of the old maxim learned at
Mammy's knee, that
"'Early to bed and early to rise,
Makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise!'
"I may misquote, but it will do. Old Sol has scarce seemed to illumine
the Western heavens ere I seek my humble couch. And yet I do not pose as
a saint. But stop! If I do not greatly err, the junior Senator from
Massachusetts seems restless and eager-eyed. I think he would like to
take the floor. I know the signs, having often observed just such a
readiness in many a good man before."
Senator Wendell, blushing, denied the charge, but when urged by all
present responded gamely.
"I really think I have no story to tell that would interest you. My life
has been cast upon very hum-drum matter-of-fact lines, and I can recall
no startling incident.
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