Page:Emma Speed Sampson--The shorn lamb.djvu/302



Philip determined that Betsy and her mother and Jo needed some diversion, too, and accordingly persuaded them to accompany him to the show at the Court House. Theatrical performances were few and far between, and when a show was given the town hall was always crowded.

The Bollings and Taylors arrived at the same time, the horses were hitched to adjoining posts, and as Philip entered the hall with his mother and sister, Spottswood Taylor and Rebecca were immediately behind them.

"Let's all sit together," suggested Rebecca, slipping her arm in Mrs. Bolling's, whose other arm was held by her son, while Jo crowded in next to Rebecca.

The hall was already beginning to fill, and six seats in a row not being available, what more natural than that Rebecca should remain with her friends and Spot and blushing Betsy should have to take their seats side by side a little removed from the rest?