CHAPTER X.

ALL FOOLS’ DAY.

The boys’ chamber—Early and late rising—Ronald’s trick—Otis enjoys a long nap—The clean plate—Suspicions allayed—More tricks—Imaginary chalk—The railroad whistle—Easter—Easter eggs—Trial of strength—Another trial—The soft egg—The pitched seat—Otis missed at school—Inquiries—Aunt Fanny’s discovery—Vexation—Otis at school—Interview with Ronald—A talk about April-fooling—Difference of opinion—A court proposed—A family custom—How the court managed business—The trial—The prosecuting Attorney’s speech—The complaint—The plea of “not guilty”—The first witness—Amusing cross-examination—Other witnesses—The prisoner’s speech—A question arises—The judge’s decision—The prisoner’s admission—His argument and appeal—The prosecuting attorney’s closing plea—An interruption—Can you tell a lie to a hen?—Conclusion of the argument—The charge—The verdict—The sentence—Its execution, 185