Look down the trunk
and count the limbs below you on this side. How many limbs have
you passed?"
"One, two, tree, four, fibe--I done pass fibe big limb, massa, 'pon
dis side."
"Then go one limb higher."
In a few minutes the voice was heard again, announcing that the
seventh limb was attained.
"Now, Jup," cried Legrand, evidently much excited, "I want you to
work your way out upon that limb as far as you can. If you see
anything strange let me know."
By this time what little doubt I might have entertained of my poor
friend's insanity was put finally at rest. I had no alternative
but to conclude him stricken with lunacy, and I became seriously
anxious about getting him home. While I was pondering upon what
was best to be done, Jupiter's voice was again heard.
"Mos feered for to ventur pon dis limb berry far--'tis dead limb
putty much all de way."
"Did you say it was a DEAD limb, Jupiter?" cried Legrand in a
quavering voice.
"Yes, massa, him dead as de door-nail--done up for sartin--done
departed dis here life."
"What in the name of heaven shall I do?" asked Legrand, seemingly
in the greatest distress.
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