Then the nomination will lie over a week, and be acted upon
at the next meeting."
"I wish you would. I never belonged to a debating society, but I
should like to learn to speak."
"It's nothing when you're used to it. It's only the first time you
know, that troubles you. By Jove! I remember how my knees trembled
when I first got up and said Mr. President. I felt as if all eyes
were upon me, and I wanted to sink through the floor. Now I can get
up and chatter with the best of them. I don't mean that I can make
an eloquent speech or anything of that kind, but I can talk at a
minute's notice on almost any subject."
"I wish I could."
"Oh, you can, after you've tried a few times. Well, then, it's
settled. I'll propose you at the next meeting."
"How lucky I am to have fallen in with you, Oscar."
"I know what you mean. I'm your guide, philosopher, and friend, and
all that sort of thing. I hope you'll have proper veneration for me.
It's rather a new character for me. Would you believe it, Harry,--at
home I am regarded as a rattle-brained chap, instead of the dignified
Professor that you know me to be. Isn't it a shame?"
"Great men are seldom appreciated at home, Oscar."
"I know that. I shall have to get a certificate from you, certifying
to my being a steady and erudite young man."
"I'll give it with the greatest pleasure.
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