"The meetin' will come to order," said he, looking around for something to thump and not finding anything but Bill Wilson, who dodged out of the way.
"The secretary will call the roll."
I called the names of the boys, and each one in turn arose and gave the Scout salute, first to Mr. Norton, then to Skinny.
"Is there any business to come before this 'ere meetin'?" he asked.
"Mr. President," I said, jumping up.
"The gentleman from Park Street," said Skinny, as big as life, just as Pa had taught us to do at meetings in our barn.
"We have with us this evening our Scoutmaster, who, I think, has something to say."
"'Tis well," said Skinny. "We'll harken unto his words of wisdom."
"Before I speak the words of wisdom which our patrol leader has so kindly mentioned," laughed Mr. Norton, "I will ask Mrs. Norton to refresh and fortify us with some lemonade."
Benny reached the door almost as soon as she did.