This seemed like beginning in earnest.

He accompanied his father to the barn, and looked with new interest at the four cows constituting his father's stock.
"I think we will begin with this one," said his father, pointing to a red-and-white heifer.

"She is better-natured than the others, and, as I dare say your fingers will bungle a little at first, that is a point to be considered." If any of my boy readers has ever undertaken the task of milking for the first time, he will appreciate Frank's difficulties.

When he had seen his father milking, it seemed to him extremely easy.

The milk poured out in rich streams, almost without an effort.