To believe only what our finite minds can grasp.
To live as if the moment, the time, the day were so important that it would live forever.
To estimate people by some outside quality, for it is that within which makes the man.
There were two apartments of about the same size. The second was the bedroom. It had a looped curtain in the doorway and was provided with two of the small windows referred to. It was clear that Elkanah Sisum was a person of taste and education, who, as he said, had taken up his abode in the wilderness, not because he was soured against his fellow men, but on account of some crushing grief that had fallen upon him long years before. His words and what he had done proved his warm regard for boys, and, hermit though he undoubtedly was, his nature was as sweet as that of a devoted mother.
I have been thus particular in my reference to him, because through one of the strange freaks of fate his fortunes became involved with those of the Boy Patrols and others, and resulted in a remarkable drama which can never be forgotten by those who took part therein.
Mike had removed his hat upon entering the dwelling, and as he now faced the old man, who was watching him, the youth made the Boy Scout salute.
“I would utter me admiration, Uncle Elk, but in truth I’m that plaised that I’m unable to spake a single word.”
“A neatly turned compliment; suppose now I start the fire and we have supper.”
“Show me some way by the which I can offer ye a little help.”
“There is none unless you choose to bring me a pail of water from the brook beyond.”