"In spite of the crowds at these summer resorts," said this learned man,
"one seldom meets with any one who takes an interest in science."
Mr. P. bowed, and mentally resolved to rub up his stock of
polytechnology for the occasion.
"I am glad, Mr. PUNCHINELLO," continued the Professor, "that you have
not neglected science in your excellent journal. You have had some
admirable treatises on natural history. The country is your debtor,
sir."
Mr. P. bowed again, and hoped, in his inmost heart, that the country
would soon pay up.
"I must admit that I am disappointed here--in several ways. In the first
place, I have not found a single glacier."
"No glaciers!" cried Mr. P., in surprise.
"No sir, not one, and I can find no sign of the Triassic period."
"Oh no!" said Mr. P. "Not now. That was several years ago, when GEORGE
FRANCIS TRAIN, COLORADO JEWETT, and DAN RICE's celebrated little donkey
were here. They're all gone now."
The Professor looked up a little surprised at these remarks, but went on
with his complaints. "And not a trace of cleavable pyroxene," said he.
"Pie rock!" said Mr. P. to himself. "I'm glad it isn't seen. Have these
geologists got to that?"
"I hoped, too," continued the Professor, "to get a little scoria."
"Oh!" said Mr. P. "You wanted to run up a little score here.
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