How he ever got in at such a small window I ca n't tell ; but there he was , strutting majestically up and down the room , his golden plumage rustling , and his keen eyes flashing as he walked . I really did n't know what to do . I could n't imagine what he came for ; I had my doubts about the propriety of offering him a chair ; and he was so much bigger than I expected that I was afraid he might fly away with me , as the roc did with Sindbad : so I did nothing but sidle to the door , ready to whisk out , if my strange guest appeared to be peckishly inclined . My respectful silence seemed to suit him ; for , after a turn or two , he paused , nodded gravely , and said affably , ` Good-evening , ma'am . I stepped over to bring you old Ben 's respects , and to see how you were getting on . ' ` I 'm very much obliged , sir . May I inquire who Mr. Old-Ben is ? I 'm afraid I have n't the honour of his acquaintance . ' ` Yes , you have ; it 's Ben Franklin , of City-Hall yard . You know him ; and he wished me to thank you for your interest in him . ' ` Dear me ! how very odd ! Will you sit down , sir ? ' ` Never sit ! I 'll perch here ; ' and the great fowl took his accustomed attitude just in front of the fire , looking so very splendid that I could n't keep my eyes off of him . ` Ah ! you often do that . Never mind ; I rather like it , ' said the eagle , graciously , as he turned his brilliant eye upon me . I was rather abashed ; but being very curious , I ventured to ask a few questions , as he seemed in a friendly mood . ` Being a woman , sir , I 'm naturally of an inquiring turn ; and I must confess that I have a strong desire to know how it happens that you take your walks abroad , when you are supposed to be permanently engaged at home ? '
He shrugged his shoulders , and actually winked at me , as he replied , ` That 's all people XXXXX of what goes on under , or rather over , their noses .
Being came inquiring keep know said sit took walked walks