They stopped, and it seemed nobody knew the way to Strawberry
Nook, unless it was the Gibbons boys, who were far behind. They
were made to drive up, and said that Strawberry Nook was in
quite a different direction, but they could bring the party round to
it through the meadows.
The lady from Philadelphia thought they might stop anywhere,
such a pleasant day, but Mr. Peterkin said they were started for
Strawberry Nook, and had better keep on, So they kept on. It
proved to be an excellent place, where they could tie the horses to
a fence. Mrs. Peterkin did not like their all heading different ways;
it seemed as if any of them might come at her, and tear up the
fence, especially as the little boys had their kites flapping round.
The Tremletts insisted upon the whole party going up the hill; it
was too damp below. So the Gibbons boys, and the little boys and
Agamemnon, and Solomon John, and all the party had to carry
everything up to the rocks. The large basket of "things" was very
heavy.
It had been difficult to lift it into the wagon, and it was harder to
take it out. But with the help of the driver, and Mr. Peterkin, and
old Mr. Bromwick, it was got up the hill.
And at last all was arranged. Mr. Peterkin was seated in his chair.
The other was offered to the lady from Philadelphia, but she
preferred the carriage cushions; so did old Mr. Bromwick. And
the table-cloth was spread,for they did bring a table-cloth,and
the baskets were opened, and the picnic really began.
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