When he came into the sitting room of the farmhouse, where he found Joe and Janey, the rare smile that comes with the sweetness of renunciation was on his lips. After he had congratulated them, he asked for Barnabas.
“He just started for the woods,” said Joe. “I think he is on his way to Uncle Larimy’s.”
David hastened to overtake him, and soon caught sight of the bent figure walking slowly over the stubbled field.
“Uncle Barnabas!” he called.
Barnabas turned and waited.
“Did you see Janey and Joe?” he asked, looking keenly into the shadowed eyes.
“Yes; Aunt M’ri had told me.”
“When?”
“This morning. Joe’s a man after your own heart, Uncle Barnabas.”
“It’s you I wanted fer her,” said the old man bluntly. “I never dreamt of its bein’ enybody else. It’s an orful disapp’intment to me, Dave. I’d ruther see you her man than to see you what I told you long ago I meant fer you to be.” 173