"But of course I got beyond that after a while. I used to speak pieces from Shakespeare and other dramatic authors. There was one I liked to speak in particular. It begins:
"The warrior bowed his crested head and tamed his heart of fire,
And sued the haughty king to free his long-imprisoned sire."
"Yes, I know the poem."
"I got a prize for speaking it at one of our closing examinations," said Leslie, proudly. "Would you like to have me speak it for you now?"
"I afraid it would attract attention in some of the neighboring rooms, as it is a spirited piece."
Leslie looked disappointed but continued. "Then I have spoken 'Young Lochinvar' also—I liked that."
"Did you never speak any prose pieces?"
"No, I didn't care for prose. I like poetry best. I wish we were alone, so I could speak something for you."
"We will go on an excursion some Sunday—say to Weehawken—and then I shall have a chance to hear you."