To cut a long paper into two strips is not difficult, but to cut that paper in haste, with others looking on and commenting, is more trying.

The scissors seem bewitched.

The paper twists and curls, and one's fingers seem to be all thumbs.

King was doing well, but he gave an impatient jerk as the paper curled round his finger, and then he was out.
Dick worked steadily, and Ruth plodded slowly along.
As they neared the end at the same time the watchers grew greatly excited.
"I bet on Ruth!" cried King; "go it, Ruth! get up! g'lang there!" "Go on, Dick," cried Marjorie.

"Clk! Clk! go 'long!" On sped the cutters, but just as it seemed as if they must finish at the same time, Dick gave a little nervous jerk at his paper, and it tore right off.
"Oh," said Midget, "you're out, Dicksie!" And then Ruth, slowly and carefully, cut the last few inches of her paper, and held up her two strips triumphantly.