Tick’s method of presenting her with the wristwatch was unique. He walked into the yard and knocked loudly upon the front door. Then he ran down to the street, laid his package in a conspicuous place on top of the gatepost, and hid behind a convenient stump upon the other side of the road to watch proceedings.
The girl came to the door and looked out. She spied the package and ran down after it. She unwrapped it, gave a squeal of delight, and ran back into the house.
“Dat made a fine hit!” Tick exclaimed, cutting a caper behind the stump.
He waited about ten minutes, then announced to himself:
“I reckin it’s ’bout time I wus gwine in an’ tellin’ her who sont her dat gift.”
He entered the yard and knocked loudly upon the door. Button Hook responded and Tick entered the house.
“Did you git a leetle somepin a while ago, Button?” he began.
“Naw,” the girl responded.
“Didn’t nobody leave you nothin’ on dat gatepost out dar?” Tick asked in a surprised tone.