The Bhaers received him cordially , for Dan 's sake , pleased that the lad had been remembered . But , after a few minutes ' chat , they were glad to know Mr. Hyde for his own sake , so genial , simple , and interesting was he . It was pleasant to see the boy 's face light up when he caught sight of his friend ; pleasanter still to see Mr. Hyde 's surprise and satisfaction in Dan 's improved manners and appearance , and pleasantest of all to watch the two sit talking in a corner , forgetting the differences of age , culture , and position , in the one subject which interested both , as man and boy compared notes , and told the story of their summer life . `` The performance must begin soon , or the actors will go to sleep , '' said Mrs. Jo , when the first greetings were over . So every one went into the school-room , and took seats before a curtain made of two bed-covers . The children had already vanished ; but stifled laughter , and funny little exclamations from behind the curtain , betrayed their whereabouts . The entertainment began with a spirited exhibition of gymnastics , led by Franz . The six elder lads , in blue trousers and red shirts , made a fine display of muscle with dumb-bells , clubs , and weights , keeping time to the music of the piano , played by Mrs. Jo behind the scenes . Dan was so energetic in this exercise , that there was some danger of his knocking down his neighbors , like so many nine-pins , or sending his bean-bags whizzing among the audience ; for he was excited by Mr. Hyde 's presence , and a burning desire to do honor to his teachers . `` A fine , strong lad . If I go on my trip to South America , in a year or two , I shall be tempted to ask you to lend him to me , Mr. Bhaer , '' said Mr. Hyde , whose interest in Dan was much increased by the report he had just heard of him . `` You shall have him , and welcome , though we shall miss our young Hercules very much . It would do him a world of good , and I am sure he would serve his friend faithfully . '' Dan heard both question and answer , and his heart leaped with joy at the thought of travelling in a new country with Mr. Hyde , and swelled with gratitude for the kindly commendation which rewarded his efforts to be all these friends desired to see him . After the gymnastics , Demi and Tommy spoke the old school dialogue , `` Money makes the mare go . '' Demi did very well , but Tommy was capital as the old farmer ; for he imitated Silas in a way that convulsed the audience , and caused Silas himself to laugh so hard that Asia had to slap him on the back , as they stood in the hall enjoying the fun immensely . Then Emil , who had got his breath by this time , gave them a sea-song in costume , with a great deal about `` stormy winds , '' `` lee shores , '' and a rousing chorus of `` Luff , boys , luff , '' which made the room ring ; after which Ned performed a funny Chinese dance , and hopped about like a large frog in a pagoda hat . As this was the only public exhibition ever held at Plumfield , a few exercises in lightning-arithmetic , spelling , and reading were given . Jack quite amazed the public by his rapid calculations on the blackboard . Tommy won in the spelling match , and Demi read a little French fable so well that Uncle Teddy was charmed .
`` Where are the other XXXXX ? ''
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