“Humph! I'd rather show my ignorance than—Hello, the doin's are goin' to commence.”
The Chapter president, a Mrs. Lake, advanced to the desk, smote it fiercely with a gavel and demanded order. The hall, which had been buzzing like a colony of June bugs, gradually grew still. Then Mrs. Lake opened the meeting. She delivered a short speech. Mrs. Black, in lieu of the secretary, who was absent, read the minutes. Then there were motions and amendments and excited calls for recognition from “Madam President.” It was livelier than Daniel had expected.
But soon the woman in crimson silk was introduced. Mrs. Cornish bowed in recognition of the gloved applause, and proceeded to talk... and talk... and talk....
At first Captain Dan endeavored to pay strict attention to the address. Its title was “The Modern Tendency,” and the tendency in this case seemed to be to say as much as possible about nothing in particular.
Daniel found his attention wandering and his eyes closing. They opened at intervals as the applause burst forth, but they closed between bursts. The tremendous enthusiasm at the end, however, awoke him for good, and he remained awake until the close of the “open meeting,” a marked contrast to Mr. Black, who slumbered to the finish.
When it was over Annette descended from the platform and came hurrying to them.
“How did you enjoy it, Captain Dott?” she purred.
Daniel rather dubiously admitted that he guessed 'twas first rate, far's he could make it out. His wife was enthusiastic; she affirmed that it was splendid.
“I'm sure we couldn't help enjoying it, Mrs. Black,” she said. “Everyone of us. Didn't you enjoy it, Mr. Black?”
“Sure!” replied Phelps promptly. “Great stuff!”