"He is a sort of Indian Hercules," replied Bernard, "who plays a
conspicuous part in many legends. He is a compound of wisdom and
folly, of benevolence and mischief, of strength and weakness, partly
Manitou and partly man, and is privileged to do anything, however
absurd and impossible, at one moment, while, at the next, he may be
shorn of his power, so as to be incapable of taking care of himself."

"A very convenient person indeed," said Anne.

"Loosing the knot of a difficulty by the intervention of such a Power,
shows but little ingenuity, I confess," said Bernard.

"There is classical authority for it, though," said Mr. Armstrong.
"Homer, himself, condescends to introduce a God, when he cannot
extricate himself from embarrassment without his help."

"Aye," said Bernard, "but the rule of Horace must not be forgotten,
nec Deus," &c.

"True," said Mr. Armstrong; "but how would you have accomplished the
feat, like one of the labors of Hercules, without some such means?"

"I do not pretend to be able to do it," answered Bernard, modestly;
"but, doubtless, one possessed of more imagination could have
accomplished it."

"You are but a cold advocate for your friend," said Faith. "You do not
allow him half the merit he deserves"

"He would not complain were he to hear me," said Bernard. "No one can