I was seeing a high-priced show for nothing.
But when it came nine o'clock, I went home.

I told my mother that I had walked out of the most gorgeous minstrel show.

She asked me why and I told her because she wanted me to be in bed by nine o'clock.
"Why, Jimmy," she said, "I wanted you to be in bed so you wouldn't be in bad company.

It would have been all right for you to have stayed at the minstrel show.

All I want to know is that you are in good company." I guess mother thought I was a bit soft, but I had seen the best part of the show, as in those days the curtain rose at seven forty-five.
Minstrel shows were the greatest delight of my youth.