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Tarkington, Booth, 1869-1946

"Penrod and Sam"

But by the time
this feat was finally accomplished, Mr. Schofield had proved
that, in spite of middle age, he was entitled to substantial
claims and honours both as athlete and orator--his oratory being
founded less upon the school of Webster and more upon that of
Jeremiah.
So the thing was done, and the double dose put within the person
of Penrod Schofield. It proved not ineffective there, and
presently, as its new owner sat morosely at table, he began to
feel slightly dizzy and his eyes refused him perfect service.
This was natural, because two tablespoons of the cloudy brown
liquor contained about the amount of alcohol to be found in an
ordinary cocktail. Now a boy does not enjoy the effects of
intoxication; enjoyment of that kind is obtained only by studious
application. Therefore, Penrod spoke of his symptoms
complainingly, and even showed himself so vindictive as to
attribute them to the new medicine.
His mother made no reply. Instead, she nodded her head as if some
inner conviction had proven well founded.
"BILIOUS, TOO," she whispered to her husband.


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