_Ass_umption."

"So called from the syllogist himself, doubtless;" said Mohi, stroking
his beard.

"Poor ignorant babe! no. Listen:--if finally, I say,--Therefore it is
not cold that's the final inference."

"And a most triumphant one it is!" cried Babbalanja. "Thrice profound,
and sapient Doxodox! Light of Mardi! and Beacon of the Universe! didst
ever hear of the Shark-Syllogism?"

"Though thy epithets be true, my child, I distrust thy sincerity. I
have not yet heard of the syllogism to which thou referrest."

"It was thus. A shark seized a swimmer by the leg; addressing him:
'Friend, I will liberate you, if you truly answer whether you think I
purpose harm.' Well knowing that sharks seldom were magnanimous, he
replied: Kind sir, you mean me harm; now go your ways.' 'No, no; my
conscience forbids. Nor will I falsify the words of so veracious a
mortal. You were to answer truly; but you say I mean you harm:--so
harm it is:--here goes your leg.'"

"Profane jester! Would'st thou insult me with thy torn-foolery?
Begone--all of ye! tramp! pack! I say: away with ye!" and into the
woods Doxodox himself disappeared.

"Bravely done, Babbalanja!" cried Media. "You turned the corner to
admiration."