"No, we can keep her easily enough," replied her husband. "You want help, Martha, summer coming on, with all the extra work."
"And we'll pay you, too," continued Mrs. Farrell.
"Oh, thank you!" exclaimed Meg. "You 're real kind. Maybe I can't do things just right, but I guess I can learn, and you needn't give me a cent till I do."
"Then, that's settled," said Jack, somewhat pleased at having the matter so easily arranged.
"If only Pooler don't make me go back."
"You say you're no relation of his?" asked Mont.
"Not's I know. He always called me a picked-up."
"Then just let him try it," put in Farmer Farrell, grimly. "I know the man well. He pretends to own Blackbird Island, but he hain't got no more title 'n I have."
"And maybe I can get you a few dresses from my sister, and----" began Jack.
"Well, there, by Jinks!" exclaimed Farmer Farrell, jumping up from the step upon which he had been sitting. "I almost forgot it, being so interested in your story. Your sister was here looking for you."