"At least," thought Ben, "it will be more comfortable than the boards outside Geraldine's door."
He saw to it that the dwarf should have a good supper, after which Pete presented himself at Ben's room as he had been ordered to do. Never before in his life had he had all the meat and potato he wanted, and still marveling at the wonderful things happening to him he was conducted to Ben, and stood before him with questioning eyes.
"Is she here, Master?" he asked.
"No, but we shall see her to-morrow."
"When—when do I go back to the farm?" asked the boy.
"Never," replied Ben calmly.
"Master!" exclaimed the dwarf, and could say no more. His tanned face grew darker with the rush of crimson.
"You're my servant now," said Ben, and his good-humored expression shone upon an eager face that worked pitifully.
"What—what can I do?" stammered Pete, his rough hands with their broken nails working together.
"You can get into the bathtub."