In Spacious Times (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1916 Excerpt: ...woods." Philemon's face, which had darkened a little at the unceremonious reception which Hercules had given to his present, by which he evidently set much store, brightened again. "Here is a good hearing," he said. "Tell me all about the matter." "Nay," replied Hercules, "I cannot tell you all about the matter, but I can deliver you the pith of it. I have persuaded three pretty gentlemen to a parley to-morrow morn, wherein there is a likelihood that some scratches may be given and taken." Philemon's face reddened with pleasure and he asked eagerly for an account of the matter. "As to that," replied Hercules, "there is really very little to tell. I chanced to make the acquaintance to-day of a trine of gentlemen. Somehow or other, it is of little concern how, we fell out. One word brought on another word, till in the end there was no help for it but we must unravel the tangle with the points of our knitting-needles. Wherefore I have come to bid you to the play." Philemon saw very plainly that the account his friend gave of the quarrel was very far from being the true picture. But also he knew very well that it was the only picture Hercules intended to present, and that he should get no other. So he took the tale with a grave face, expressed his delighted readiness to attend on the adventure, and cocked his eye at a long rapier that hung against the wall. Hercules was for taking his leave and had got as far as the door, when he suddenly turned on his heel and came back to his friend. "By the by," he questioned, "did you ever hear tell of a book that is called 'Arcadia'?" Philemon leaned back in his chair and laughed merrily. "For very sure I did," he answered. &quot...