How many of you remember a book called Mike Mulligan and his steamshovel. I'm sure a lot of you do because it's been around for lots of years and it's still a popular children's book. To refresh your memory: Mike Mulligan contracts to dig the cellar for the new town hall. He promises to dig it in one day, or he'll do it free. Their secret is that the more people watch them the faster they dig.

Now, of course, that's not the way things are. You don't work faster or better just because people are watching. But there is an element of truth in it.

How many of you have played with a band or orchestra, or been on a sports team, or been in a play? If you have you've probably played or performed before large supportive audiences and before meager, lukewarm groups. Maybe you've played before people who wanted you to lose.

How do you play or perform better? Before before the supportive audience or the one that's hoping you lose? When do you play with more enjoyment and enthusiasm?

Last week you elected new Troop leaders. They are going to work hard to succeed. How well they do succeed depends, in part, on you. With your help and support they will succeed.