Oh, Sad, Sad Groundhog Day

THE LONG-AWAITED REPORT

Most of the squads were down in an old rock quarry engaged in tireless hole-watching when Hibernating Governor Hensel emitted a bloodcurdling scream. A chorus of equally inhuman sounds answered from the rim of the quarry, where stood the members of Squad No. 5. Three times they roared in the wind.

"Have you a report?" shouted Hensel through cupped hands.

"Yes, Brother Groundhog, we have a report," came the answer.

"Come forward and report."

They scrambled down the slope and the Prophet of the squad said, "At 9:42 7/8 a.m., at a point 76� 8' longitude, 39� 52' latitude, Eden Township, the groundhog saw his shadow and scooted back."

This announcement was greeted with howls of approbation, and the lodge members formed in single file to march back the weary quarter mile and take the news to Quarryville and the world. There was a parade and feasting and loud laughter rocked the small town. They finally assembled in the Hibernating Governor's hardware store where the festivities continued far into the night.

Perhaps the late Mr. Hensel had the right idea. He fostered a myth but he generated fun. At least he didn't go around blaming the groundhog for something the critter didn't ask for in the first place.