CHAPTER VIII.

THE FOREST PICNIC.

An early turn out—Morning work—Starting 122 for the picnic—The church—The rendezvous—The procession—The forest road—The falls—The grove—A talk about Oscar—His letter—Account of his history—Games and amusements—Preparations for speaking—The log cabin—Its interior—The exercises—The dialogue of “The Rival Speakers”—A dispute—They both begin—Interruptions—Ludicrous imitations—A coincidence—More beginnings and interruptions—Coaxings—How the Irishman and his wife divided the house—Tom’s withdrawal—Sam’s impudence—His breakdown—Inglorious retreat—The authors’ suspense—Their triumph—The intermission—Congratulations—Mr. Walker—His commendation—His apology—How the boys received it—Burdens removed—Injuries sink deeper than apologies—The dinner—Speeches—Going a blueberrying—The ride home—Five miles of talk—Silence—What Clinton was thinking of—His question proposed—Why it was not proposed sooner—Mr. Davenport’s explanation—A distinction—Sam’s character—Clinton satisfied—Arrival home,