Books › The second violin, 1906 › scan 172
Scan 172
The second violin, 1906
12 lines. Read by computer on 3 September 2026. Printed page 146. See the scan on archive.org.
1"Now see here, Uncle Ray," remonstrated his eldest nephew, "this is stealing a march on us with a vengeance."
3"I'm entirely willing you should let a march steal on me," retorted the captain, disposing himself comfortably among his rugs and cushions, "or a waltz, or a lullaby, or anything else you choose. But music of some sort I must have."
5Laughing, they tuned their instruments, and the rest of the company settled down to listen. Lanse, his eyes mischievous, passed a whispered word among the musicians, and presently, at the signal, the well-known notes of "Hail to the Chief" were sounding through the woods, played with great spirit and zest. And as they played, the five Birches marched to position in front of the captain, then stood still and saluted.
7"Off with you, you strolling players!" cried the captain. "The spectacle of a 'cello player attempting to carry his instrument and perform upon it at the same time is enough to upset me for a week. Sit down comfortably, and give us 'The Sweetest Flower That Blows.'"
9So they played, softly now, and with full appreciation of the fact that the melodious song was one of their mother's favourites.
11But suddenly they had a fresh surprise, for as they played, a voice from the little audience joined
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