John Carter,
sitting on the bench in front of them, turned and nodded. Carter had
promised to buy the Lincolns' south field. He would have the papers
ready for Tom to sign on Monday. Tom needed the money, but the very
thought of selling any of his land made him grumpy. He twisted and
turned on the hard wooden bench during the long sermon. He hardly heard
a word that the preacher was saying.
Abe leaned forward and listened eagerly. The preacher was a tall, thin
man. He flung his arms about. His voice grew louder and hoarser as the
morning passed. He paused only to catch his breath or when the members
of the congregation shouted, "Amen." After the final hymn, he stood at
the door shaking hands.
"Brother Lincoln," he said, "I want you to meet up with a new neighbor.
This here is Mr. Swaney."
Tom shook hands. Then the preacher introduced Abe.
"Are you the new schoolmaster?" Abe asked.
"I don't figure on starting school till after harvest," Mr. Swaney
replied. "Will you be one of my scholars?"
"I'd sure like to come." Abe glanced at his father.
"I reckon not," said Tom stiffly.
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