They debated the question as though Mr. Palk were not present. He listened quite silently; but finally, when it became impossible not to state his opinion on the point, he spoke.
"I will certainly do so," he said. "If you'll write them down, I will carry out the items, miss."
"It's asking too much," hesitated Susan.
"It may be, or it may not," he answered. "But I'll do it—for you."
She thanked him very heartily. She was honestly most grateful.
"It's proper kind and will take a great weight off my mind, Mr. Palk."
"Set 'em down; and if there's anything to be carried, I'll carry it."
Susan evinced her gratitude, but repeated her fears that she was asking too much. She was almost excited and forgot her dinner.
"There's the patterns from the tailor first. Father wants a new, warm suit, and be hopeful Mr. West have got the same stuff as before; but tailor will give you a little book of patterns, as will go in your pocket I should think. And there's they cough drops made with black currants for father, and his boots, that went to be mended, and his new leggings."
"Nought for yourself?" asked Thomas.