But that brought down a flood of trouble upon his unsuspecting head, as every boy at camp instantly yelled and begged for some position in the new Brass Band, although many of them had not the slightest idea of the difference between a half-note and a fish-worm.
“It all boils down to this: We’ve got to buy instruments and all take part in the band. The girls will have to take up the choral work and give musicals in singing while we accompany them in playing,” determined Uncle Ben.
The Blue Birds and Bobolinks arrived about noon, the day following the drill and the decision to start a brass band. As the noisy party stopped before Aunt Selina’s door, each one tried to crane his neck for a glimpse of the wonderful camp they had been the means of founding. But the trees screened everything from curious eyes; still the shouting and laughter could be heard, although even that was mellowed by the distance from the house.
“Oh, Uncle Ben, we are wild to see the Little Citizens. Aunt Selina and you have not written half enough to satisfy us!” cried Ruth Talmage, as she jumped at her uncle, the moment the automobile stopped.
“Uncle Ben, Mr. Richards telephoned us this morning early, that he couldn’t come with us. You must have told him to get some stuff in New York. He said he would attend to it today and leave the city on a midnight train, so’s to be here tomorrow,” said Ned Talmage, delivering the message as he was asked.
“That’s fine, Ned! If Mr. Richards can get what I want there will be a heap of fun at Happy Hills this summer,” replied Uncle Ben.
“As if there was no fun here!” laughed Miss Selina.
“Come on,—come on, and don’t stand there talking! I want to see the camp,” called Don Starr, catching hold of Jinks’ hand to pull him away.
“Wait a moment! Don’t you want something to eat?” questioned Mr. Talmage.
“But why can’t we eat in the Refectory with the Citizens?” wondered Meredith Starr aloud.