Though Larry had got his new suit of clothes, he knew that Lucy had promised to go to Gainsboro with young Snyder, so he spared himself the humiliation of being refused.
In his disappointment he donned his best clothes, and though Mr. Howlitt had intended for him to ride along with the family, he went on foot and alone, “the same as the girl who went to get married.”
The day was pleasant, and he found a large crowd gathered in the grove, where merriment reigned supreme. A stranger among strangers, he held aloof from the rest, until he was both surprised and pleased to see Rob, Tom and Jerry there.
“Hello!” greeted the first, “you didn’t say you were coming over here.”
“Neither did you,” replied Larry.
“Say, Rob, don’t Larry look fine in his new clothes? Where’d you get ’em, Larry?”
“Bought them with money of my own earning,” retorted Larry, who was not disposed to do much talking even with his friends.
The truth was, he had been on the watch for Lucy and Pluto Snyder, but they had not appeared, though it was already past the time set for the speaking, and he knew they were waiting for the “orator” up at the grand stand. Then he saw Mr. Howlitt arrive, and Lucy was with him, so that his wonder increased.
He was about to go and speak to her, when Job touched him on the arm, saying, in a low voice:
“They want you up to the spouter’s stand.”