88 FARMING IT 



The exercises were to be held in a large hall 

 at two o'clock in the afternoon, and the oration 

 and collation were to be preceded by a business 

 meeting. Shortly after two o'clock I arrived at the 

 hall, attempted to enter, and finding the door 

 fastened, announced my presence by a sounding 

 knock. In reply I heard some one from within 

 informing those present that an alarm was made 

 at the outer court, or words to that effect. 



I imagined that orders were given from within 

 by those in authority to ascertain the reasons for 

 the alarm, and to be prepared to repel any un- 

 authorized ruffian who might attempt to enter 

 the sacred precincts of the Grange Hall. I felt 

 assured that such was the case when the door 

 opened and the largest man I had ever beheld 

 appeared on the threshold and hoarsely inquired 

 what my purpose was. 



I shrank perceptibly before this dignified and 

 powerful individual, and informed him with 

 much humility that I wanted to come in. He in 

 return demanded the pass- word, and in my con- 

 fusion I was utterly unable to give it. I informed 

 him timidly that I had forgotten the pass-word, 

 but if he would kindly furnish me with one I 

 would immediately return it. 



In reply he laid his hand in a wholly fraternal 

 manner upon my shoulder, called me brother, 

 opened the door, and to my great confusion, 



