The society worked well for a time, but after the various members had done their best, as Pax said, to keep the pot boiling, it was felt and suggested that they should seek a little aid from without. A reading or a lecture was proposed, seconded, and carried. Then came the question who should be asked to read or lecture. Macnab proposed that their chairman should endeavour to procure a lecturer, and report to next meeting. Sandy Tod objected, and proposed a committee to consider the subject. Phil Maylands said he had anticipated the demand, and had already secured the promise of a lecturer—if the members chose to accept him.
“Name! name!” cried several voices.
“Our excellent landlord, Solomon Flint,” said Phil. “You all know his admirable powers of memory, and his profound knowledge of men and things (‘At least if you don’t, you ought to,’ from Pax), and you may be sure he’ll give us something good.”
“And proverbial,” added little Grigs.
“Ay, Flint will certainly strike fire out of whatever he tackles,” said Big Jack.
(“Order!” from Pax.)
“When is he to give it?” asked one.
“Won’t fix the time just yet,” said Phil.
“What’s his subject?” asked another.
“Can’t say; not yet decided.”