The matter was talked over for a few minutes, and then the good lady visited her pantry and brought forth two loaves of bread, a currant jelly layer cake and a large apple pie.
“Here you be, an’ welcome,” she said.
“Now, if you want any vegetables, say the word, and they be yours,” said the farmer. “The cellar an’ the barn are more’n full.”
Once again the matter was talked over, and when the boys were ready to leave, they had, in addition to the bread, cake and pastry, a large basket completely filled with potatoes, turnips, onions, beans and cabbage, enough to last them until the end of their outing.
When they were thanking the country folks for their kindness, a cutter drove up to the horse-block, and a young and buxom countrywoman rushed into the house. She proceeded to hug and kiss the old couple.
“Such news, ma!” she burst out. “Uncle Ben and three sleigh loads are coming over to-night for a dance! They are going to bring old Fiddler Dick and an Italian harp player along. Henry and I want you to come over sure!”
“Humph! I’m most too old for a shin-dig like that,” said the farmer, but, nevertheless, he smiled broadly.
“So be I,” added the wife, but she, too, looked pleased.
“Oh, you must come, both of you!” insisted the young country wife, impulsively. “And you——” and then she broke off short and gazed at the four boys who had stepped to one side out of the way.
“My daughter,” said the old farmer, presenting her to the boys. “Sarah, these young fellows just helped me put a fire out in the barn—one that crazy Jim Lemkins had started. I don’t know their names, but they are from Rudskill and are out camping.”