Bang! that was the front door slamming behind both boys and bicycle, leaving the house quiet for a time, though the sound of voices outside suggested that a lively discussion was going on.
The bicycle fever had reached Perryville, and raged all summer. Now the town was very like a once tranquil2 pool infested3 with the long-legged water bugs4 that go skating over its surface in all directions; for wheels of every kind darted5 to and fro, startling horses, running over small children, and pitching their riders headlong in the liveliest manner. Men left their business to see the lads try new wheels, women grew skilful6 in the binding7 of wounds and the mending of sorely rent garments, gay girls begged for rides, standing8 on the little step behind, and boys clamored for bicycles that they might join the army of martyrs9 to the last craze.
Sidney West was the proud possessor of the best[256] wheel in town, and displayed his treasure with immense satisfaction before the admiring eyes of his mates. He had learned to ride in a city rink, and flattered himself that he knew all there was to learn, except those feats10 which only professional gymnasts acquire. He mounted with skilful agility11, rode with as much grace as the tread-mill movements of the legs permit, and managed to guide his tall steed without much danger to himself or others. The occasional headers he took, and the bruises13 which kept his manly14 limbs in a chronic15 state of mourning he did not mention; but concealed16 his stiffness heroically, and bound his younger brother to eternal silence by the bribe17 of occasional rides on the old wheel.
Hugh was a loyal lad, and regarded his big brother as the most remarkable18 fellow in the world; so he forgave Sid's domineering ways, was a willing slave, a devoted19 admirer, and a faithful imitator of all the masculine virtues20, airs, and graces of this elder brother. On one point only did they disagree, and that was Sid's refusal to give Hugh the old wheel when the new one came. Hugh had fondly hoped it would be his, hints to that effect having been dropped when Sid wanted an errand done, and for weeks the younger boy had waited and labored21 patiently, sure that his reward would be the small bicycle on which he could proudly take his place as a member of the newly formed club; with them to set forth22, in the blue uniform, with horns blowing, badges glittering, and legs flying, for a long spin,—to return after dark, a mysterious line of[257] tall shadows, "with lanterns dimly burning," and warning whistles sounding as they went.
Great, therefore, was his disappointment and wrath23 when he discovered that Sid had agreed to sell the wheel to another fellow, if it suited him, leaving poor Hugh the only boy of his set without a machine. Much as he loved Sid, he could not forgive this underhand and mercenary transaction. It seemed so unbrotherly to requite24 such long and willing service, to dash such ardent25 hopes, to betray such blind confidence, for filthy26 lucre27; and when the deed was done, to laugh, and ride gayly away on the splendid British Challenge, the desire of all hearts and eyes.
This morning Hugh had freely vented29 his outraged30 feelings, and Sid had tried to make light of the affair, though quite conscious that he had been both unkind and unfair. A bicycle tournament was to take place in the city, twenty miles away, and the members of the club were going. Sid, wishing to distinguish himself, intended to ride thither31, and was preparing for the long trip with great care. Hugh was wild to go, but having spent his pocket-money and been forbidden to borrow, he could not take the cars as the others had done; no horse was to be had, and their own stud consisted of an old donkey, who would have been hopeless even with the inducement offered in the immortal32 ditty,—
"If I had a donkey what wouldn't go,
Do you think I'd whip him? Oh, no, no!
I'd take him to Jarley's Wax-work Show."
Therefore poor Hugh was in a desperate state of[258] mind as he sat on the gate-post watching Sid make his pet's toilet, till every plated handle, rod, screw, and axle shone like silver.
"I know I could have ridden the Star if you hadn't let Joe have it. I do think it was right down mean of you; so does Aunt Ruth, and father too,—only he wont33 say so, because men always stand by one another, and snub boys."
This was strong language for gentle Hugh, but he felt that he must vent28 his anguish34 in some way or cry like a girl; and that disgrace must be avoided, even if he failed in respect to his elders.
Sid was whistling softly as he oiled and rubbed, but he was not feeling as easy as he looked, and heartily35 wished that he had not committed himself to Joe, for it would have been pleasant to take "the little chap," as he called the fourteen-year-older, along with him, and do the honors of the rink on this great occasion. Now it was too late; so he affected36 a careless air, and added insult to injury by answering his brother's reproaches in the joking spirit which is peculiarly exasperating37 at such moments.
"Children shouldn't play with matches, nor small boys with bicycles. I don't want to commit murder, and I certainly should if I let you try to ride twenty miles when you can't go one without nearly breaking your neck, or your knees," and Sid glanced with a smile at the neat darns which ornamented38 his brother's trousers over those portions of his long legs.
"How's a fellow going to learn if he isn't allowed to[259] try? Might as well tell me to keep away from the water till I can swim. You give me a chance and see if I can't ride as well as some older fellows who have been pitched round pretty lively before they dared to try a twenty-mile spin," answered Hugh, clapping both hands on his knees to hide the tell-tale darns.
"If Joe doesn't want it, you can use the old wheel till I decide what to do with it. I suppose a man has a right to sell his own property if he likes," said Sid, rather nettled39 at the allusion40 to his own tribulations41 in times past.
"Of course he has; but if he's promised to give a thing he ought to do it, and not sneak42 out of the bargain after he's got lots of work done to pay for it. That's what makes me mad; for I believed you and depended on it, and it hurts me more to have you deceive me than it would to lose ten bicycles;" and Hugh choked a little at the thought, in spite of his attempt to look sternly indignant.
"You are welcome to your opinion, but I wouldn't cry about it. Play with chaps of your own size and don't hanker after men's property. Take the cars, if you want to go so much, and stop bothering me," retorted Sid, getting cross because he was in the wrong and wouldn't own it.
"You know I can't! No money, and mustn't borrow. What's the use of twitting a fellow like that?" and Hugh with great difficulty refrained from knocking off the new helmet-hat which was close to[260] his foot as Sid bent43 to inspect the shining hub of the cherished wheel.
"Take Sancho, then; you might arrive before the fun was all over, if you carried whips and pins and crackers44 enough to keep the old boy going; you'd be a nice span."
This allusion to the useless donkey was cruel, but Hugh held on to the last remnant of his temper, and made a wild proposal in the despair of the moment.
"Don't be a donkey yourself. See here, why can't we ride and tie? I've tried this wheel, and got on tip-top. You'd be along to see to me, and we'd take turns. Do, Sid! I want to go awfully45, and if you only will I won't say another word about Joe."
But Sid only burst out laughing at the plan, in the most heartless manner.
"No, thank you. I don't mean to walk a step when I can ride; or lend my new wheel to a chap who can hardly keep right side up on the old one. It looks like a jolly plan to you, I dare say, but I don't see it, young man."
"I hope I sha'n't be a selfish brute46 when I'm seventeen. I'll have a bicycle yet,—A, No. 1,—and then you'll see how I'll lend it, like a gentleman, and not insult other fellows because they happen to be two or three years younger."
"Keep cool, my son, and don't call names. If you are such a smart lad, why don't you walk, since wheels and horses and donkey fail. It's only twenty miles,—nothing to speak of, you know."
"Well, I could do it if I liked. I've walked[261] eighteen, and wasn't half so tired as you were. Any one can get over the ground on a bicycle, but it takes strength and courage to keep it up on foot."
"Better try it."
"I will, some day."
"Don't crow too loud, my little rooster; you are not cock of the walk yet."
"If I was, I wouldn't hit a fellow when he's down;" and fearing he should kick over the tall bicycle that stood so temptingly near him, Hugh walked away, trying to whistle, though his lips were more inclined to tremble than to pucker47.
"Just bring my lunch, will you? Auntie is putting it up; I must be off," called Sid, so used to giving orders that he did so even at this unpropitious moment.
"Get it yourself. I'm not going to slave for you any longer, old tyrant," growled48 Hugh; for the trodden worm turned at last, as worms will.
This was open revolt, and Sid felt that things were in a bad way, but would not stop to mend them then.
"Whew! here's a tempest in a teapot. Well, it is too bad; but I can't help it now. I'll make it all right to-morrow, and bring him round with a nice account of the fun. Hullo, Bemis! going to town?" he called, as a neighbor came spinning noiselessly by.
"Part way, and take the cars at Lawton. It's hard riding over the hills, and a bother to steer49 a wheel through the streets. Come on, if you're ready."
"All right;" and springing up, Sid was off, forgetting[262] all about the lunch.
Hugh, dodging50 behind the lilac-bushes, heard what passed, and the moment they were gone ran to the gate to watch them out of sight with longing51 eyes, then turned away, listlessly wondering how he should spend the holiday his brother was going to enjoy so much.
At that moment Aunt Ruth hurried to the door, waving the leathern pouch52 well stored with cake and sandwiches, cold coffee and pie.
"Sid's forgotten his bag. Run, call, stop him!" she cried, trotting53 down the walk with her cap-strings waving wildly in the fresh October wind.
For an instant Hugh hesitated, thinking sullenly54, "Serves him right. I won't run after him;" then his kind heart got the better of his bad humor, and catching55 up the bag he raced down the road at his best pace, eager to heap coals of fire on Sid's proud head,—to say nothing of his own desire to see more of the riders.
"They will have to go slowly up the long hill, and I'll catch them then," he thought as he tore over the ground, for he was a good runner and prided himself on his strong legs.
Unfortunately for his amiable56 intentions, the boys had taken a short cut to avoid the hill, and were out of sight down a lane where Hugh never dreamed they would dare to go, so mounted.
"Well, they have done well to get over the hill at this rate. Guess they won't keep it up long," panted[263] Hugh, stopping short when he saw no signs of the riders.
The road stretched invitingly57 before him, the race had restored his spirits, and curiosity to see what had become of his friends lured59 him to the hill-top, where temptation sat waiting for him. Up he trudged60, finding the fresh air, the sunny sky, the path strewn with red and yellow leaves, and the sense of freedom so pleasant that when he reached the highest point and saw the world all before him, as it were, a daring project seemed to flash upon him, nearly taking his breath away with its manifold delights.
"Sid said, 'Walk,' and why not?—at least to Lawton, and take the cars from there, as Bemis means to do. Wouldn't the old fellows be surprised to see me turn up at the rink? It's quarter past eight now, and the fun begins at three; I could get there easy enough, and by Jupiter, I will! Got lunch all here, and money enough to pay this car-fare, I guess. If I haven't, I'll go a little further and take a horse-car. What a lark61! here goes,"—and with a whoop62 of boyish delight at breaking bounds, away went Hugh down the long hill, like a colt escaped from its pasture.
The others were just ahead, but the windings63 of the road hid them from him; so all went on, unconscious of each other's proximity64. Hugh's run gave him a good start, and he got over the ground famously for five or six miles; then he went more slowly, thinking he had plenty of time to catch a certain train. But he had no watch, and when he reached Lawton he had[264] the pleasure of seeing the cars go out at one end of the station as he hurried in at the other.
"I won't give it up, but just go on and do it afoot. That will be something to brag65 of when the other chaps tell big stories. I'll see how fast I can go, for I'm not tired, and can eat on the way. Much obliged to Sid for a nice lunch."
And chuckling66 over this piece of good luck, Hugh set out again, only pausing for a good drink at the town-pump. The thirteen miles did not seem very long when he thought of them, but as he walked them they appeared to grow longer and longer, till he felt as if he must have travelled about fifty. He was in good practice, and fortunately had on easy shoes; but he was in such a hurry to make good time that he allowed himself no rest, and jogged on, up hill and down, with the resolute67 air of one walking for a wager68. There we will leave him, and see what had befallen Sid; for his adventures were more exciting than Hugh's, though all seemed plain sailing when he started.
At Lawton he had parted from his friend and gone on alone, having laid in a store of gingerbread from a baker's cart, and paused to eat, drink, and rest by a wayside brook69. A few miles further he passed a party of girls playing lawn tennis, and as he slowly rolled along regarding them from his lofty perch70, one suddenly exclaimed:—
"Why, it's our neighbor, Sidney West! How did he come here?" and waving her racquet, Alice ran across the lawn to find out.
Very willing to stop and display his new uniform,[265] which was extremely becoming, Sid dismounted, doffed71 his helmet, and smiled upon the damsels, leaning over the hedge like a knight72 of old.
"Come in and play a game, and have some lunch. You will have plenty of time, and some of us are going to the rink by and by. Do, we want a boy to help us, for Maurice is too lazy, and Jack73 has hurt his hand with that stupid base ball," said Alice, beckoning74 persuasively75, while the other girls nodded and smiled hopefully.
Thus allured76, the youthful Ulysses hearkened to the voice of the little Circe in a round hat, and entered the enchanted77 grove78, to forget the passage of time as he disported79 himself among the nymphs. He was not changed to a beast, as in the immortal story, though the three young gentlemen did lie about the lawn in somewhat grovelling80 attitudes; and Alice waved her racquet as if it were a wand, while her friends handed glasses of lemonade to the recumbent heroes during pauses in the game.
While thus blissfully engaged, time slipped away, and Hugh passed him in the race, quite unconscious that his brother was reposing81 in the tent that looked so inviting58 as the dusty, tired boy plodded82 by, counting every mile-stone with increasing satisfaction.
"If I get to Uncle Tim's by one o'clock, I shall have done very well. Four miles an hour is a fair pace, and only one stop. I'll telegraph to auntie as soon as I arrive; but she won't worry, she's used to having us turn up all right when we get ready," thought Hugh, grateful that no over-anxious mamma[266] was fretting83 about his long absence. The boys had no mother, and Aunt Ruth was an easy old lady who let them do as they liked, to their great contentment.
As he neared his journey's end our traveller's spirits rose, and the blisters84 on his heels were forgotten in the dramatic scene his fancy painted, when Sid should discover him at Uncle Tim's, or calmly seated at the rink. Whistling gayly, he was passing through a wooded bit of road when the sound of voices made him look back to see a carriage full of girls approaching, escorted by a bicycle rider, whose long blue legs looked strangely familiar.
Anxious to keep his secret till the last moment, also conscious that he was not in company trim, Hugh dived into the wood, out of sight, while the gay party went by, returning to the road as soon as they were hidden by a bend.
"If Sid hadn't been so mean, I should have been with him, and had some of the fun. I don't feel like forgiving him in a hurry for making me foot it, like a tramp, while he is having such a splendid time."
If Hugh could have known what was to happen very soon after he had muttered these words to himself, as he wiped his hot face, and took the last sip85 of the coffee to quench86 his thirst, he would have been sorry he uttered them, and have forgiven his brother everything.
While he was slowly toiling87 up the last long hill, Sid was coasting down on the other side, eager to display his courage and skill before the girls,—being of an age when boys begin to wish to please and astonish[267] the gentler creatures whom they have hitherto treated with indifference88 or contempt. It was a foolish thing to do, for the road was rough, with steep banks on either side, and a sharp turn at the end; but Sid rolled gayly along, with an occasional bump, till a snake ran across the road, making the horse shy, the girls scream, the rider turn to see what was the matter, and in doing so lose his balance just when a large stone needed to be avoided. Over went Sid, down rattled89 the wheel, up rose a cloud of dust, and sudden silence fell upon the girls at sight of this disaster. They expected their gallant90 escort would spring up and laugh over his accident; but when he remained flat upon his back, where he had alighted after a somersault, with the bicycle spread over him like a pall91, they were alarmed, and flew to the rescue.
A cut on the forehead was bleeding, and the blow had evidently stunned92 him for a moment. Luckily, a house was near, and a man seeing the accident hastened to offer more efficient help than any the girls had wit enough to give in the first flurry, as all four only flapped wildly at Sid with their handkerchiefs, and exclaimed excitedly,—
"What shall we do? Is he dead? Run for water. Call somebody, quick."
"Don't be scat, gals93; it takes a sight of thumpin' to break a boy's head. He ain't hurt much; kinder dazed for a minute. I'll hist up this pesky mashine and set him on his legs, if he hain't damaged 'em."
With these cheering words, the farmer cleared away the ruins, and propped94 the fallen rider against a tree;[268] which treatment had such a good effect that Sid was himself in a moment, and much disgusted to find what a scrape he was in.
"This is nothing, a mere95 bump; quite right, thanks. Let us go on at once; so sorry to alarm you, ladies." He began his polite speech bravely, but ended with a feeble smile and a clutch at the tree, suddenly turning sick and dizzy again.
"You come along a me. I'll tinker you and your whirligig up, young man. No use sayin' go ahead, for the thing is broke, and you want to keep quiet for a spell. Drive along, gals, I'll see to him; and my old woman can nuss him better 'n a dozen flutterin' young things scat half to death."
Taking matters into his own hands, the farmer had boy and bicycle under his roof in five minutes; and with vain offers of help, many regrets, and promises to let his Uncle Tim know where he was, in case he did not arrive, the girls reluctantly drove away, leaving no sign of the catastrophe96 except the trampled97 road, and a dead snake.
Peace was hardly restored when Hugh came down the hill, little dreaming what had happened, and for the second time passed his brother, who just then was lying on a sofa in the farm-house, while a kind old woman adorned98 his brow with a large black plaster, suggesting brown paper steeped in vinegar, for the various bruises on his arms and legs.
"Some one killed the snake and made a great fuss about it, I should say," thought Hugh, observing the signs of disorder99 in the dust; but, resisting a boy's[269] interest in such affairs, he stoutly100 tramped on, sniffing101 the whiffs of sea air that now and then saluted102 his nose, telling him that he was nearing his much-desired goal.
Presently the spires103 of the city came in sight, to his great satisfaction, and only the long bridge and a street or two lay between him and Uncle Tim's easy chair, into which he soon hoped to cast himself.
Half-way across the bridge a farm-wagon passed, with a bicycle laid carefully on the barrels of vegetables going to market. Hugh gazed affectionately at it, longing to borrow it for one brief, delicious spin to the bridge end. Had he known that it was Sid's broken wheel, going to be repaired without loss of time, thanks to the good farmer's trip to town, he would have paused to have a hearty104 laugh, in spite of his vow105 not to stop till his journey was over.
Just as Hugh turned into the side street where Uncle Tim lived, a horse-car went by, in one corner of which sat a pale youth, with a battered106 hat drawn107 low over his eyes, who handed out his ticket with the left hand, and frowned when the car jolted108, as if the jar hurt him. Had he looked out of the window, he would have seen a very dusty boy, with a pouch over his shoulder, walking smartly down the street where his relation lived. But Sid carefully turned his head aside, fearing to be recognized; for he was on his way to a certain club to which Bemis belonged, preferring his sympathy and hospitality to the humiliation109 of having his mishap110 told at home by Uncle Tim, who[270] would be sure to take Hugh's part, and exult111 over the downfall of the proud. Well for him that he avoided that comfortable mansion112; for on the door-steps stood Hugh, beaming with satisfaction as the clock struck one, proclaiming that he had done his twenty miles in a little less than five hours.
"Not bad for a 'little chap,' even though he is 'a donkey,'" chuckled113 the boy, dusting his shoes, wiping his red face, and touching114 himself up as well as he could, in order to present as fresh and unwearied an aspect as possible, when he burst upon his astonished brother's sight.
In he marched when the door opened, to find his uncle and two rosy115 cousins just sitting down to dinner. Always glad to see the lads, they gave him a cordial welcome, and asked for his brother.
"Hasn't he come yet?" cried Hugh, surprised, yet glad to be the first on the field.
Nothing had been seen of him, and Hugh at once told his tale, to the great delight of his jolly uncle, and the admiring wonder of Meg and May, the rosy young cousins. They all enjoyed the exploit immensely, and at once insisted that the pedestrian should be refreshed by a bath, a copious116 meal, and a good rest in the big chair, where he repeated his story by particular request.
"You deserve a bicycle, and you shall have one, as sure as my name is Timothy West. I like pluck and perseverance117, and you've got both; so come on, my boy, and name the wheel you like best. Sid needs a little taking down, as you lads say, and this will[271] give it to him, I fancy. I'm a younger brother myself, and I know what their trials are."
As his uncle made these agreeable remarks, Hugh looked as if his trials were all over; for his face shone with soap and satisfaction, his hunger was quenched118 by a splendid dinner, his tired feet luxuriated in a pair of vast slippers119, and the blissful certainty of owning a first-class bicycle filled his cup to overflowing120. Words could hardly express his gratitude121, and nothing but the hope of meeting Sid with this glorious news would have torn him from the reposeful122 Paradise where he longed to linger. Pluck and perseverance, with cold cream on the blistered123 heels, got him into his shoes again, and he rode away in a horse-car, as in a triumphal chariot, to find his brother.
"I won't brag, but I do feel immensely tickled124 at this day's work. Wonder how he got on. Did it in two or three hours, I suppose, and is parading round with those swell125 club fellows at the rink. I'll slip in and let him find me, as if I wasn't a bit proud of what I've done, and didn't care two pins for anybody's praise."
With this plan in his head, Hugh enjoyed the afternoon very much; keeping a sharp lookout126 for Sid, even while astonishing feats were being performed before his admiring eyes. But nowhere did he see his brother; for he was searching for a blue uniform and a helmet with a certain badge on it, while Sid in a borrowed hat and coat sat in a corner looking on, whenever a splitting headache and the pain in his[272] bones allowed him to see and enjoy the exploits in which he had hoped to join.
Not until it was over did the brothers meet, as they went out, and then the expression on Sid's face was so comical that Hugh laughed till the crowd about them stared, wondering what the joke could be.
"How in the world did you get here?" asked the elder boy, giving his hat a sudden pull to hide the plaster.
"Walked, as you advised me to."
Words cannot express the pleasure that answer gave Hugh, or the exultation127 he vainly tried to repress, as his eyes twinkled and a grin of real boyish fun shone upon his sunburnt countenance128.
"You expect me to believe that, do you?"
"Just as you please. I started to catch you with your bag, and when I missed you, thought I might as well keep on. Got in about one, had dinner at uncle's, and been enjoying these high jinks ever since."
"Very well, for a beginning. Keep it up and you'll be a Rowell by and by. What do you suppose father will say to you, small boy?"
"Not much. Uncle will make that all right. He thought it was a plucky129 thing to do, and so did the girls. When did you get in?" asked Hugh, rather nettled at Sid's want of enthusiasm, though it was evident he was much impressed by the "small boy's" prank130.
"I took it easy after Bemis left me. Had a game of tennis at the Blanchards' as I came along, dinner at the club, and strolled up here with the fellows. Got a headache, and don't feel up to much."
As Sid spoke131 and Hugh's keen eye took in the[273] various signs of distress132 which betrayed a hint of the truth, the grin changed to a hearty "Ha! ha!" as he smote133 his knees exclaiming gleefully, "You've come to grief! I know it, I see it. Own up, and don't shirk, for I'll find it out somehow, as sure as you live."
"Don't make such a row in the street. Get aboard this car and I'll tell you, for you'll give me no peace till I do," answered Sid, well knowing that Alice would never keep the secret.
To say that it was "nuts" to Hugh faintly expresses the interest he took in the story which was extracted bit by bit from the reluctant sufferer; but after a very pardonable crow over the mishaps134 of his oppressor, he yielded to the sympathy he felt for his brother, and was very good to him.
This touched Sid, and filled him with remorse135 for past unkindness; for one sees one's faults very plainly, and is not ashamed to own it, when one is walking through the Valley of Humiliation.
"Look here, I'll tell you what I'll do," he said, as they left the car, and Hugh offered an arm, with a friendly air pleasant to see. "I'll give you the old wheel, and let Joe get another where he can. It's small for him, and I doubt if he wants it, any way. I do think you were a plucky fellow to tramp your twenty miles in good time, and not bear malice136 either, so let's say 'Done,' and forgive and forget."
"Much obliged, but uncle is going to give me a new one; so Joe needn't be disappointed. I know[274] how hard that is, and am glad to keep him from it, for he's poor and can't afford a new one."
That answer was Hugh's only revenge for his own trials, and Sid felt it, though he merely said, with a hearty slap on the shoulder,—
"Glad to hear it. Uncle is a trump137, and so are you. We'll take the last train home, and I'll pay your fare."
"Thank you. Poor old man, you did get a bump, didn't you?" exclaimed Hugh, as they took off their hats in the hall, and the patch appeared in all its gloomy length and breadth.
"Head will be all right in a day or two, but I stove in my helmet, and ground a hole in both knees of my new shorts. Had to borrow a fit-out of Bemis, and leave my rags behind. We needn't mention any more than is necessary to the girls; I hate to be fussed over," answered Sid, trying to speak carelessly.
Hugh had to stop and have another laugh, remembering the taunts138 his own mishaps had called forth; but he did not retaliate139, and Sid never forgot it. Their stay was a short one, and Hugh was the hero of the hour, quite eclipsing his brother, who usually took the first place, but now very meekly140 played second fiddle141, conscious that he was not an imposing142 figure, in a coat much too big for him, with a patch on his forehead, a purple bruise12 on one cheek, and a general air of dilapidation143 very trying to the usually spruce youth.
When they left, Uncle Tim patted Hugh on the head,—a liberty the boy would have resented if[275] the delightful144 old gentleman had not followed it up by saying, with a reckless generosity145 worthy146 of record,—
"Choose your bicycle, my boy, and send the bill to me." Then turning to Sid he added, in a tone that made the pale face redden suddenly, "And do you remember that the tortoise beat the hare in the old fable147 we all know."
"That is the last of the stories, for our holiday is over, and to-morrow we must go home. We have had a splendid time, and thank you and auntie so much, dear grandma," said Min, expressing the feeling of all the children, as they stood about the fire when the bicycle tale ended.
"I'm so glad, my darlings, and please God we'll all meet here again next year, well and happy and ready for more fun," answered the old lady, with arms and lap full of loving little people.
"Auntie deserves a vote of thanks, and I rise to propose it," said Geoff; and it was passed with great applause.
"Many thanks. If the odds148 and ends in my portfolio149 have given you pleasure or done you any good, my fondest wishes are gratified," answered Aunt Elinor, laughing, yet well pleased. "I tucked a moral in, as we hide pills in jelly, and I hope you didn't find them hard to swallow."
"Very easy and nice. I intend to look after[276] little things faithfully, and tell the girls how to make their jerseys150 fit," said Min.
"I'm going to fill my jewel-box as Daisy did, and learn to cook," added Lotty.
"Eli is the boy for me, and I won't forget to be kind to my small chap," said Walt, stroking his younger brother's head with unusual kindness.
"Well, I'm rather mixed in my heroes, but I'll take the best of Corny, Onawandah, and the banner fellow for my share," cried Geoff.
The little people proclaimed their favorites; but as all spoke together, only a comical mixture of doves, bears, babies, table-cloths and blue hose reached the ear. Then came the good-night kisses, the patter of departing feet, and silence fell upon the room. The little wheel was still, the chairs stood empty, the old portraits looked sadly down, the fire died out, and the Spinning-Wheel Stories were done.
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zigzagged
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| adj.呈之字形移动的v.弯弯曲曲地走路，曲折地前进( zigzag的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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tranquil
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| adj. 安静的, 宁静的, 稳定的, 不变的 | |
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infested
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| adj.为患的，大批滋生的（常与with搭配）v.害虫、野兽大批出没于( infest的过去式和过去分词 )；遍布于 | |
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| adj.疯狂的，发疯的n.窃听器( bug的名词复数 )；病菌；虫子；[计算机]（制作软件程序所产生的意料不到的）错误 | |
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5
darted
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| v.投掷，投射( dart的过去式和过去分词 )；向前冲，飞奔 | |
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skilful
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| (=skillful)adj.灵巧的，熟练的 | |
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binding
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| 有约束力的，有效的，应遵守的 | |
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standing
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| n.持续，地位；adj.永久的，不动的，直立的，不流动的 | |
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martyrs
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| n.martyr的复数形式；烈士( martyr的名词复数 )；殉道者；殉教者；乞怜者（向人诉苦以博取同情） | |
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feats
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| 功绩，伟业，技艺( feat的名词复数 ) | |
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agility
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| n.敏捷，活泼 | |
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12
bruise
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| n.青肿，挫伤；伤痕；vt.打青；挫伤 | |
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bruises
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| n.瘀伤，伤痕，擦伤( bruise的名词复数 ) | |
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manly
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| adj.有男子气概的；adv.男子般地，果断地 | |
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chronic
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| adj.(疾病)长期未愈的，慢性的；极坏的 | |
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16
concealed
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| a.隐藏的，隐蔽的 | |
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17
bribe
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| n.贿赂；v.向…行贿，买通 | |
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18
remarkable
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| adj.显著的，异常的，非凡的，值得注意的 | |
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19
devoted
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| adj.忠诚的，忠实的，热心的，献身于...的 | |
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virtues
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| 美德( virtue的名词复数 )； 德行； 优点； 长处 | |
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21
labored
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| adj.吃力的，谨慎的v.努力争取(for)( labor的过去式和过去分词 )；苦干；详细分析；（指引擎）缓慢而困难地运转 | |
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22
forth
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| adv.向前；向外，往外 | |
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23
wrath
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| n.愤怒，愤慨，暴怒 | |
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24
requite
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| v.报酬，报答 | |
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25
ardent
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| adj.热情的，热烈的，强烈的，烈性的 | |
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filthy
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| adj.卑劣的；恶劣的，肮脏的 | |
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27
lucre
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| n.金钱，财富 | |
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28
vent
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| n.通风口，排放口；开衩；vt.表达，发泄 | |
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vented
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| 表达，发泄（感情，尤指愤怒）( vent的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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30
outraged
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| a.震惊的，义愤填膺的 | |
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31
thither
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| adv.向那里；adj.在那边的，对岸的 | |
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32
immortal
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| adj.不朽的；永生的，不死的；神的 | |
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33
wont
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| adj.习惯于；v.习惯；n.习惯 | |
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34
anguish
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| n.(尤指心灵上的)极度痛苦，烦恼 | |
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35
heartily
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| adv.衷心地，诚恳地，十分，很 | |
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36
affected
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| adj.不自然的，假装的 | |
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37
exasperating
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| adj. 激怒的 动词exasperate的现在分词形式 | |
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38
ornamented
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| adj.花式字体的v.装饰，点缀，美化( ornament的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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39
nettled
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| v.拿荨麻打，拿荨麻刺（nettle的过去式与过去分词形式） | |
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40
allusion
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| n.暗示，间接提示 | |
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41
tribulations
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| n.苦难( tribulation的名词复数 )；艰难；苦难的缘由；痛苦 | |
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42
sneak
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| vt.潜行(隐藏,填石缝)；偷偷摸摸做；n.潜行；adj.暗中进行 | |
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43
bent
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| n.爱好，癖好；adj.弯的；决心的，一心的 | |
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44
crackers
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| adj.精神错乱的，癫狂的n.爆竹( cracker的名词复数 )；薄脆饼干；（认为）十分愉快的事；迷人的姑娘 | |
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45
awfully
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| adv.可怕地，非常地，极端地 | |
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46
brute
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| n.野兽，兽性 | |
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47
pucker
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| v.撅起，使起皱；n.（衣服上的）皱纹，褶子 | |
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48
growled
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| v.（动物）发狺狺声， （雷）作隆隆声( growl的过去式和过去分词 )；低声咆哮着说 | |
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49
steer
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| vt.驾驶，为…操舵；引导；vi.驾驶 | |
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50
dodging
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| n.避开，闪过，音调改变v.闪躲( dodge的现在分词 )；回避 | |
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51
longing
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| n.（for）渴望 | |
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52
pouch
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| n.小袋，小包，囊状袋；vt.装...入袋中，用袋运输；vi.用袋送信件 | |
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53
trotting
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| 小跑，急走( trot的现在分词 )； 匆匆忙忙地走 | |
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54
sullenly
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| 不高兴地，绷着脸，忧郁地 | |
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55
catching
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| adj.易传染的，有魅力的，迷人的，接住 | |
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56
amiable
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| adj.和蔼可亲的，友善的，亲切的 | |
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57
invitingly
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| adv. 动人地 | |
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58
inviting
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| adj.诱人的，引人注目的 | |
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59
lured
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| 吸引，引诱（lure的过去式与过去分词形式） | |
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60
trudged
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| vt.& vi.跋涉，吃力地走（trudge的过去式与过去分词形式） | |
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61
lark
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| n.云雀，百灵鸟；n.嬉戏，玩笑；vi.嬉戏 | |
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62
whoop
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| n.大叫，呐喊，喘息声；v.叫喊，喘息 | |
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63
windings
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| （道路、河流等）蜿蜒的，弯曲的( winding的名词复数 )； 缠绕( wind的现在分词 )； 卷绕； 转动（把手） | |
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64
proximity
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| n.接近，邻近 | |
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65
brag
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| v./n.吹牛，自夸；adj.第一流的 | |
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66
chuckling
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| 轻声地笑( chuckle的现在分词 ) | |
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67
resolute
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| adj.坚决的，果敢的 | |
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68
wager
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| n.赌注；vt.押注，打赌 | |
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69
brook
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| n.小河，溪；v.忍受，容让 | |
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70
perch
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| n.栖木，高位，杆；v.栖息，就位，位于 | |
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71
doffed
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| v.脱去，（尤指）脱帽( doff的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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72
knight
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| n.骑士，武士；爵士 | |
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73
jack
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| n.插座，千斤顶，男人；v.抬起，提醒，扛举；n.（Jake）杰克 | |
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74
beckoning
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| adj.引诱人的，令人心动的v.（用头或手的动作）示意，召唤( beckon的现在分词 ) | |
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75
persuasively
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| adv.口才好地；令人信服地 | |
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76
allured
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| 诱引，吸引( allure的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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77
enchanted
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| adj. 被施魔法的，陶醉的，入迷的 动词enchant的过去式和过去分词 | |
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78
grove
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| n.林子，小树林，园林 | |
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79
disported
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| v.嬉戏，玩乐，自娱( disport的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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80
grovelling
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| adj.卑下的，奴颜婢膝的v.卑躬屈节，奴颜婢膝( grovel的现在分词 )；趴 | |
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81
reposing
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| v.将（手臂等）靠在某人（某物）上( repose的现在分词 ) | |
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82
plodded
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| v.沉重缓慢地走（路）( plod的过去式和过去分词 )；努力从事；沉闷地苦干；缓慢进行（尤指艰难枯燥的工作） | |
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83
fretting
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| n. 微振磨损 adj. 烦躁的, 焦虑的 | |
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84
blisters
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| n.水疱( blister的名词复数 )；水肿；气泡 | |
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85
sip
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| v.小口地喝，抿，呷；n.一小口的量 | |
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86
quench
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| vt.熄灭，扑灭；压制 | |
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87
toiling
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| 长时间或辛苦地工作( toil的现在分词 )； 艰难缓慢地移动，跋涉 | |
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88
indifference
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| n.不感兴趣，不关心，冷淡，不在乎 | |
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89
rattled
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| 慌乱的，恼火的 | |
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90
gallant
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| adj.英勇的，豪侠的；(向女人)献殷勤的 | |
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91
pall
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| v.覆盖，使平淡无味；n.柩衣，棺罩；棺材；帷幕 | |
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92
stunned
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| adj. 震惊的，惊讶的 动词stun的过去式和过去分词 | |
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93
gals
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| abbr.gallons （复数）加仑（液量单位）n.女孩，少女( gal的名词复数 ) | |
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94
propped
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| 支撑，支持，维持( prop的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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95
mere
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| adj.纯粹的；仅仅，只不过 | |
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96
catastrophe
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| n.大灾难，大祸 | |
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97
trampled
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| 踩( trample的过去式和过去分词 )； 践踏； 无视； 侵犯 | |
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98
adorned
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| [计]被修饰的 | |
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99
disorder
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| n.紊乱，混乱；骚动，骚乱；疾病，失调 | |
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100
stoutly
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| adv.牢固地，粗壮的 | |
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101
sniffing
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| n.探查法v.以鼻吸气，嗅，闻( sniff的现在分词 )；抽鼻子（尤指哭泣、患感冒等时出声地用鼻子吸气）；抱怨，不以为然地说 | |
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102
saluted
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| v.欢迎，致敬( salute的过去式和过去分词 )；赞扬，赞颂 | |
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103
spires
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| n.（教堂的） 塔尖，尖顶( spire的名词复数 ) | |
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104
hearty
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| adj.热情友好的；衷心的；尽情的，纵情的 | |
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105
vow
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| n.誓(言)，誓约；v.起誓，立誓 | |
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106
battered
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| adj.磨损的；v.连续猛击；磨损 | |
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107
drawn
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| v.拖，拉，拔出；adj.憔悴的，紧张的 | |
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108
jolted
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| （使）摇动， （使）震惊( jolt的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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109
humiliation
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| n.羞辱 | |
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110
mishap
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| n.不幸的事，不幸；灾祸 | |
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111
exult
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| v.狂喜，欢腾；欢欣鼓舞 | |
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112
mansion
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| n.大厦，大楼；宅第 | |
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113
chuckled
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| 轻声地笑( chuckle的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
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114
touching
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| adj.动人的，使人感伤的 | |
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115
rosy
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| adj.美好的，乐观的，玫瑰色的 | |
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116
copious
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| adj.丰富的，大量的 | |
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117
perseverance
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| n.坚持不懈，不屈不挠 | |
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118
quenched
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| 解（渴）( quench的过去式和过去分词 )； 终止（某事物）； （用水）扑灭（火焰等）； 将（热物体）放入水中急速冷却 | |
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119
slippers
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| n. 拖鞋 | |
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120
overflowing
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| n. 溢出物,溢流 adj. 充沛的，充满的 动词overflow的现在分词形式 | |
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121
gratitude
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| adj.感激，感谢 | |
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122
reposeful
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| adj.平稳的，沉着的 | |
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123
blistered
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| adj.水疮状的，泡状的v.（使）起水泡( blister的过去式和过去分词 )；（使表皮等）涨破，爆裂 | |
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124
tickled
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| （使）发痒( tickle的过去式和过去分词 )； （使）愉快，逗乐 | |
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125
swell
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| vi.膨胀，肿胀；增长，增强 | |
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126
lookout
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| n.注意，前途，瞭望台 | |
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127
exultation
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| n.狂喜，得意 | |
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128
countenance
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| n.脸色，面容；面部表情；vt.支持，赞同 | |
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plucky
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| adj.勇敢的 | |
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prank
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| n.开玩笑，恶作剧；v.装饰；打扮；炫耀自己 | |
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131
spoke
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| n.（车轮的）辐条；轮辐；破坏某人的计划；阻挠某人的行动 v.讲，谈（speak的过去式）；说；演说；从某种观点来说 | |
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132
distress
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| n.苦恼，痛苦，不舒适；不幸；vt.使悲痛 | |
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133
smote
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| v.猛打，重击，打击( smite的过去式 ) | |
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134
mishaps
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| n.轻微的事故，小的意外( mishap的名词复数 ) | |
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135
remorse
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| n.痛恨，悔恨，自责 | |
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136
malice
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| n.恶意，怨恨，蓄意；[律]预谋 | |
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137
trump
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| n.王牌，法宝；v.打出王牌，吹喇叭 | |
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138
taunts
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| 嘲弄的言语，嘲笑，奚落( taunt的名词复数 ) | |
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139
retaliate
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| v.报复，反击 | |
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140
meekly
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| adv.温顺地，逆来顺受地 | |
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141
fiddle
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| n.小提琴；vi.拉提琴；不停拨弄，乱动 | |
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imposing
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| adj.使人难忘的，壮丽的，堂皇的，雄伟的 | |
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143
dilapidation
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| n.倒塌；毁坏 | |
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144
delightful
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| adj.令人高兴的，使人快乐的 | |
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145
generosity
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| n.大度，慷慨，慷慨的行为 | |
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146
worthy
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| adj.(of)值得的，配得上的；有价值的 | |
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147
fable
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| n.寓言；童话；神话 | |
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148
odds
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| n.让步，机率，可能性，比率；胜败优劣之别 | |
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149
portfolio
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| n.公事包；文件夹；大臣及部长职位 | |
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150
jerseys
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| n.运动衫( jersey的名词复数 ) | |
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