“But you must, until that tired look in your face is all gone.”
“Look here, am I running up a bill for medical advice?”
“Mr. Mahan, I don’t want to see any more of you till I ring the bell for supper.”
Chapter 36. Krypton
He found his cap and went out on the porch, taking care that the screen door should not slam. But instead of obeying orders, he sat down and enjoyed the landscape.
Beyond the Duckling appeared the Canadian shore, a forest retreating slowly to a mountain. He knew from his map that he was looking at a Canadian island thirty miles long. The name on the map was St. Joseph, but according to the old gunsmith the real name was Bay-quah-de-nah-shing, the island with a mountain.
From his own explorations he knew that the mountain must command a wonderful view. But it was ten miles away, and it stood to reason that the Riches could not afford to visit such heights. Therefore it would be decent in him to send them up there. While they were gone he could take a good look at their larder and see if it needed replenishing.
He stole around to the back door and entered. She paid no attention to him, because he was violating orders.
He seated himself on the woodbox, which was full of newspapers and silvery birch, and offered a few well chosen words about the neatness of the kitchen. No response.
He watched her wield the dishmop with bewildering rapidity, and scald the china with floods.