Mr Bramble did not know whether to chide or laugh at this
declaration -- He foresaw much contradiction on the side of
Tabby; and on the other hand, he could not but be pleased with
the gratitude of Clinker, as well as with the simplicity of his
character -- 'Suppose I was inclined to take you into my service
(said he) what are your qualifications? what are you good for?'
'An please your honour (answered this original) I can read and
write, and do the business of the stable indifferent well -- I can
dress a horse, and shoe him, and bleed and rowel him; and, as for
the practice of sow-gelding, I won't turn my back on e'er a he in
the county of Wilts -- Then I can make hog's puddings and hob-nails,
mend kettles and tin sauce-pans.' -- Here uncle burst out a-laughing;
and inquired what other accomplishments he was master
of -- 'I know something of single-stick, and psalmody (proceeded
Clinker); I can play upon the jew's-harp, sing Black-ey'd Susan,
Arthur-o'Bradley, and divers other songs; I can dance a Welsh
jig, and Nancy Dawson; wrestle a fall with any lad of my inches,
when I'm in heart; and, under correction I can find a hare when
your honour wants a bit of game.
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