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Eben Holden: A Tale of the North Country, a novel by Irving Bacheller |
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BOOK TWO - Chapter 41 |
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_ BOOK TWO - Chapter 41 I got a warm welcome on Monkey Hill. John Trumbull came to dine with us at the chalet the evening of my arrival. McGlingan had become editor-in-chief of a new daily newspaper. Since the war began Mr Force had found ample and remunerative occupation writing the 'Obituaries of Distinguished Persons . He sat between Trumbull and McGlingan at table and told again of the time he had introduced the late Daniel Webster to the people of his native town. Reciting a passage of the immortal Senator he tipped his beer into the lap of McClingan. He ceased talking and sought pardon. 'It is nothing, Force - nothing,' said the Scotchman, with great dignity, as he wiped his coat and trousers. 'You will pardon me if I say that I had rather be drenched in beer than soaked in recollections. 'That's all right,' said Mr Opper, handing him a new napkin. 'Yes, in the midst of such affliction I should call it excellent fun, McClingan added. 'If you ever die, Force, I will preach the sermon without charge. 'On what text?' the obituary editor enquired. '"There remaineth therefore, a rest for the people of God,"'quoth McClingan solemnly. 'Hebrews, fourth chapter and ninth verse. 'If I continue to live with you I shall need it,' said Force. 'And if I endure to the end,' said McClingan, 'I shall have excellent Christian discipline; I shall feel like opening my mouth and making a loud noise. McGlingan changed his garments and then came into my room and sat with us awhile after dinner. 'One needs ear lappers and a rubber coat at that table,' said he. 'And a chest protector,' I suggested, remembering the finger of Force. 'I shall be leaving here soon, Brower,' said McGlingan as he lit a cigar. 'Where shall you go?' I asked. 'To my own house. 'Going to hire a housekeeper? 'Going to marry one,' said he. 'That's funny,' I said. We're all to be married - every man of us. 'By Jove!' said McClingan, 'this is a time for congratulation. God save us and grant for us all the best woman in the world. _ |