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It is not necessary to particularize the
exact locality where our sketch was taken; the scene is one which will fit a thousand
localities.
Given the wandering musicians, a convenient, unwatched melon patch in warm weather, and
all the rest follows as a matter of course.
Stolen fruits are sweet; and if we interpret the smiles of the elder members of the group
aright, it is fair to say that the fruit they are eating was purloined without leave or
license, and was not the reward of judicious and persistent crank music.
What if Mr. Farmer has happened to see them stealing his fruit, and is coming to claim it,
with the fiery-tempered Towser at his heels? What a scattering and screaming the
appearance of this determined pair would make!
The music would be lively for a little while, sure enough, but then the little ones might
get hurt, and Jocko, the monkey, would be frightened half out of his wits.
So, while we do not approve of thievishness, let us hope that nothing will occur to mar
the enjoyment of the group while at their roadside lunch.
From Hearth and Home,
September 30, 1871, Engraving by W. M. Cary
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