Phil looked around him with interest.

He had the fondness, natural to his age, for seeing new places.

He soon came to a schoolhouse.

It was only a quarter of nine, and some of the boys were playing outside.

Phil leaned against a tree and looked on.
Though he was at an age when boys enjoy play better than work or study, he had no opportunity to join in their games.
One of the boys, observing him, came up and said frankly, "Do you want to play with us ?" "Yes," said Phil, brightening up, "I should like to." "Come on, then." Phil looked at his fiddle and hesitated.
"Oh, I'll take care of your fiddle for you.