That is why I am able to tell you everything now.
The assembly hall was crowded to bursting, but my friends had no trouble in finding seats.

They were ushered up to the platform, which was reserved for guests of honor.

I was very proud to see my friends treated with such distinction.

My parents were there, and Frieda, of course; Miss Dillingham, and some others of my Chelsea teachers.

A dozen or so of my humbler friends and acquaintances were scattered among the crowd on the floor.
When I stepped up on the stage to read my composition I was seized with stage fright.