As I saw the large pool of water on the ground and Ruth's leg rubbed quite dry I grew milder in my words and simply sent him to get the halter and put it on. Then I went on with the letters. As I came back I went into the pantry where the breakfast things were not yet washed. Again I exploded.
"Why were the cups and silver not yet washed?"
"Gibbie cum een en say he had o'ders to git all de hot water fer Root fut, so 'e hemp both kittle, en we had to put on water fresh f'r we, en it ain't hot 'nuff yet."
I simply had to leave without saying a word.
"Patty en Dab en me bin a eat."
Later Chloe sought me when I had just settled myself at my desk to write, and said:—
"Miss Pashuns, all dat hot water Gibbie tek out de two kittle out de kitchen, 'e neber put a drop on Root fut!"
"My, Chloe! what did he do with it, then?"