Some nights he could be seen stealing away from the congressman's residence.

On others he could be seen leaving the neighborhood of the school, with a spade in one hand and a few carpenter's tools in the other.
He went to the congressman, who was a polished orator with a national reputation, in order that he might purge his oration from its impurities of speech.

As the congressman read the oration and perceived the depth of thought, the logical arrangement, the beauty and rhythm of language, and the wide research displayed, he opened his eyes wide with astonishment.

He was amazed that a young man of such uncommon talents could have grown up in his town and he not know it.
Belton's marvelous talents won his respect and admiration, and he gave him access to his library and criticized his oration whenever needed.
Secretly and silently preparations went on for the grand conflict.

At last the day came.