Perhaps he reflected that the stern processes of his favourite evolution demanded more knowledge of this machine than even he had acquired.
* * * * * There ensued further profitable education for the young mechanic from the remarkable case of Sharon Whipple's first motor car.

Sharon, the summer before, after stoutly affirming for two years that he would never have one of the noisy things on the place, even though the Whipple New Place now boasted two--boasting likewise of their speed and convenience--and even though Gideon Whipple jestingly called him a fossilized barnacle on the ship of progress, had secretly bought a motor car and secretly for three days taken instructions in its running from the city salesman who delivered it.

His intention was to become daringly expert in its handling and flash upon the view of the discomfited Gideon, who had not yet driven a car.

He would wheel carelessly up the drive to the Whipple New Place in apparently contemptuous mastery of the thing, and he would specifically deny ever having received any driving lessons whatever, thus by falsehood overwhelming his brother with confusion.
In the stable, therefore, one afternoon he had taken his place at the wheel.

Affecting a jovial ease of mind, he commanded the company of his stableman, Elihu Titus, on the seat beside him.