THE LAST EVENING AT HOME "Now, then, everyone join in the chorus," commanded Hippy Wingate.

There was an answering tinkle from Reddy's mandolin, the deeper notes of a guitar sounded, then eight care-free young voices were raised in the plaintive chorus of "My Old Kentucky Home." It was a warm night in September.

Miriam Nesbit and seven of the Eight Originals were spending a last evening together on the Harlowes' hospitable veranda.

They were on the eve of separation.

The following day would witness Nora's and Jessica's departure for the conservatory.
Grace and Miriam would return to Overton at the beginning of the next week, and the latter part of the same week would find the four young men entered upon their senior year in college.
"Very fine, indeed," commented Hippy, "but in order to sing properly one ought to drink a great deal of lemonade.