and so I praised myself; and that's a bad thing to do. I only succeeded in exciting the merriment of every occupant of the room, for I heard derisive laughter on all sides of me.
"Don't throw on airs, young fellow," said the canvas canoe, as soon as he could speak. "You have come to the wrong shop for that sort of work. I wouldn't boast until I had done something, if I were in your place. If there is any good in you, you will fare well in Joe's hands, and he will do your bragging for you; but if you fail him when the pinch comes, you will most likely be chucked into the lake, or given away to the first little ragamuffin he can find who wants a rod that is good for nothing. So take a friend's advice and hold your tongue until you have seen service."
I felt somewhat abashed by this rebuke, for, of course, I was desirous of making a favorable impression upon those with whom I was to be associated all the days of my life. I thought I had made them despise me; but the next words uttered by the canvas canoe showed me that I need have no fears on that score.
"A boat and a rod generally go together,
