The wind was blowing hard from the northwest.

The congregation dispersed in chattering groups, their lanterns dipping and swinging like fireflies.
The chatter dealt entirely with one subject--himself.

He heard his name mentioned at least twenty times.

Out of the gusty, dripping blackness came Mr.Badger's voice.
"By time!" crowed Josiah, "he was took down a few p-p-pup-pegs, wa'n't he! My! how Eben did g-gi-gi-give it to him.

He looked toler'ble white under the gills when he riz up to heave out his s-s-sus-sassy talk.