Finally, in a weak and uncertain voice, Arden and Terry, after a moment of embarrassed consultation, sang one verse from their prep-school song; something about “Bring Me Violets for My Hair,” while Sim tapped about more like a sparrow than a swan.
At last it was over.
“Not bad,” commented Toots.
“I’ve seen worse,” said Pip.
“But not much,” was Jessica’s opinion.
Then the sophomores delivered a rhyming ultimatum. They stood with their heads together and chanted:
“From yonder orchard, old and green,
Where, ’tis said, strange things are seen,
You three, upon this fatal day,
Must gather apples while ye may.