“I’m going to have a party at Kingthorpe,” said Johnny, “and I want you to come. There will be lots and lots of yellow plums.”
“Is that so?” asked the little cripple.
“You may chop my head off if it isn’t,” said Johnny. “And your little sisters are to come, too; only they must have their faces washed.”
“Can I eat all the plums I want?” asked the little cripple.
“Oh, yes, the whole garden is full.”
“Shall I come now?” asked the child, smiling.
“No, it is next Saturday.”
“That’s a long time to wait.”
“Oh, well, the plums will be all the riper.”
Away went Johnny Blossom to Jeremias the wood-cutter.