Are n't they worse than a press-gang to carry a fellow out of his moorings ? Do n't we all need one as pilot to steer us safe to port ? and why should n't they share our mess afloat and ashore since we are sure to be wrecked without 'em ? ' ` Good for you , Emil ! Nan will take you for first mate after that handsome speech , ' said Demi , as the girls applauded , and Tom glowered . ` Now , Dan , you love liberty so well yourself , are you willing we should have it ? ' ` All you can get , and I 'll fight any man who 's mean enough to say you do n't deserve it . ' This brief and forcible reply delighted the energetic President , and she beamed upon the member from California , as she said briskly : ` Nat would n't dare to say he was on the other side even if he were , but I hope he has made up his mind to pipe for us , at least when we take the field , and not be one of those who wait till the battle is won , and then beat the drums and share the glory . ' Mrs Giddy-gaddy 's doubts were most effectually removed , and her sharp speech regretted , as Nat looked up blushing , but with a new sort of manliness in face and manner , saying , in a tone that touched them all : ' I should be the most ungrateful fellow alive if I did not love , honour , and serve women with all my heart and might , for to them I owe everything I am or ever shall be . ' Daisy clapped her hands , and Bess threw her bouquet into Nat 's lap , while the other girls waved their fans , well pleased ; for real feeling made his little speech eloquent . ` Thomas B. Bangs , come into court , and tell the truth , the whole truth , and nothing but the truth , if you can , ' commanded Nan , with a rap to call the meeting to order . Tom shut the umbrella , and standing up raised his hand , saying solemnly : ' I believe in suffrage of all kinds . I adore all women , and will die for them at any moment if it will help the cause . ' ` Living and working for it is harder , and therefore more honourable . Men are always ready to die for us , but not to make our lives worth having . Cheap sentiment and bad logic . You will pass , Tom , only do n't twaddle . Now , having taken the sense of the meeting we will adjourn , as the hour for festive gymnastics has arrived . I am glad to see that old Plum has given six true men to the world , and hope they will continue to be staunch to her and the principles she has taught them , wherever they may go . Now , girls , do n't sit in draughts , and , boys , beware of ice-water when you are warm . '
With this characteristic close XXXXX retired from office , and the girls went to enjoy one of the few rights allowed them .
Bangs Bess California Daisy Dan Giddy-gaddy Nan Nat President press-gang