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An Old Man cut himself a bundle of faggots in a wood and started

to carry them home. He had a long way to go, and was tired out

before he had got much more than half-way. Casting his burden on

the ground, he called upon Death to come and release him from his

life of toil. The words were scarcely out of his mouth when, much

to his dismay, Death stood before him and professed his readiness

to serve him. He was almost frightened out of his wits, but he

had enough presence of mind to stammer out, "Good sir, if you'd

be so kind, pray help me up with my burden again."

THE MISER