MR. PUNCHINELLO:--Breaking in a young span of boots is ecstasy, or would
be, if fitting bootmakers could be found; but there's the pinch, though
they do give you fits sometimes.
Getting tailored to suit me, the next thing was to get booted, I
succeeded. It cost me nineteen dollars.
I'd willingly return the compliment for nothing.
At last my boots were finished, and I went into them right and left; at
least, I tried so to do.
With every nerve flashing lightning, I pulled and tugged most
thrillingly, but in vain.
"There's no putting my foot in it," says I.
"Give one more try," says he.
Although almost tried out, I generously gave one more. I placed the
bootmaker's awl in one strap, and his last-hook in the other, and with
"two roses" mantling my cheeks, postured for the contest.
I tried the heeling process, and earnestly endeavored to toe the mark;
but to successfully start the thing on foot was a bootless effort.