"Have we had a little exhibition of that especial brand of pride that goes before a fall ?" "We have! and I take the tumble," said Laddie.

"Watch me start! 'Jack fell down and broke his crown.' Question--will 'Jill come tumbling after ?'" My heart stopped and I was shaking in my bare feet, because I wore no shoes to shake in.

Oh my soul! No matter how Laddie jested I knew he was almost killed; the harder he made fun, the worse he was hurt.

I opened my mouth to say I did it, I had to, but Leon began to talk.
"Well, I think she's smart!" he cried.

"If she was going to give you the mitten, why didn't she do it long ago ?" "She had to find out first whether there were a possibility of her wanting to keep it," said Laddie.
"You're sure you are all signed, sealed, and delivered on this plowing business, are you ?" asked Leon.
"Dead sure!" said Laddie.
"All right, if you like it!" said Leon.