Gave me three answers he did; first that 'twas forty-eight, then that 'twas eighty-four and then that he'd forgot what 'twas.

But I noticed he could tell me a whole string about some feller called Lockintar or Lochinvar or some such outlandish name, and not only his name but where he came from, which was out west somewheres.

A poetry piece 'twas; Nate said the teacher'd been speakin' it to 'em.

I ain't got no objection to speakin' pieces, but I do object to bein' told that four times eight is eighty-four, 'specially when I'm buyin' codfish at eight cents a pound.

I ain't on the school committee, but if I was--" So the committee investigated and when Miss Thompson's year was up and the question arose as to her re-engagement, there was considerable hesitancy.