The boys have worked faithfully and industriously in the timber on Saturday forenoons. A rest of fifteen minutes has always been given, about the middle of the forenoon. When the signal is given, they assemble at some convenient place, where there are several logs suited for seats; for all are required to be seated as the best way to rest their weary limbs, during this period.
A pail of fresh water and a paper sack filled with soda crackers is always provided for their enjoyment at this time. A smile of pleasure and delight is sure to light up the countenance of every boy, when, taking his turn, he thrusts his hand into the paper sack and draws therefrom his appointed number of crackers.
At these periods of rest and lunch all usually seem as happy as if they were enjoying a regular social picnic dinner. Amid the merriment and pleasantry of the occasion they seem to forget all consciousness of weariness, or thought that their work is hard, and resume it again with pleasure and delight.
XXI
OBLIGATION AND PLEDGES.
OBLIGATION.—ENDEAVOR.—SELP-HELP STUDENTS.—TEMPERANCE.—THE INTOXICATING CUP.—PRESIDENT LINCOLN.—PRESIDENT HARRISON.
"Thy vows are upon me O God. I will pay my vows unto the Lord, in the presence of all his people."—David.