"I apologized for knocking your arm," said Joe, flushing at the bluntness of this individual.
"Ah, me lad, thank ye," came the hearty answer. "Only it sort of took me by surprise. I ain't used to overmuch politeness; we don't seem to get much time where I come from. Been out before?"
Joe shook his head, and asked for the plate of meat and bread and butter.
"Then you're green?"
Joe smiled. "As grass," he said briskly.
"Going to work or to play?" asked this stranger, as he stuffed a huge piece of cake into his mouth.
"Work—got to; I'd rather, any day."
"Farming?"
"That's my intention," declared Joe, helping himself liberally.
"Then you'll like it. I'll be able to put you up to the ropes. You're going out just at the right time, too, for it'll be fine weather. Tea, me lad?"