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Micky Finn was so overwhelmed with gratitude and surprise at this unexpected invitation that he stood gaping at his benefactor, but said not a word.

“T’ank the chentleman, Micky! Can’t che t’ank him nice, fer what he’s gone and done fer you an’ Nelly?” Ikey said with a scowl at his friend for whom he was sponsor.

“I do thank—Aw, get out, Ikey! De gentleman knows the choky way I feel in my windpipe! Don’che, Mister?” wailed Finn.

“Yes, Micky, I know just how you feel, and I feel just as happy as if you had thanked me with every word known to convey the feeling of gratitude,” said Mr. Talmage, smiling.

“Dat’s all right to say to him, Mr. Ta’mage, but I don’t like my fren’s what I bring up here to do nuttin’ what ain’t all jus’ right. We all gotta remember to say what folks like you’se say to each udder, ef we’re goin’ to live at Happy Hills!” rebuked Ikey Einstein, thoughtfully.

“That’s right, too, Ikey, but you have had more opportunities to practice than Micky had; when he meets us often, he, too, will begin to change his habits and ways of expressing himself.”