“How is Carl’s arm?” he inquired.
Both women started. It was Aunt Philomela who replied,
“It is getting along very well, I believe.”
Miss Van Patten caught her breath and looked away. Barnes noticed it. He sought her eyes with a question. She flushed scarlet. Upon the moment he determined to see Carl as soon as he could leave.
Like three discussing a grave crisis in a sick room, they talked on in strained, jerky little sentences until Joe came down again. At the boy’s entrance, Aunt Philomela arose. It was clear at a glance that Van Patten was unnerved, but it was also clear that he had succeeded. He came direct to Aunt Philomela with his hand extended.
“Well, Joe?” she stammered.
“Aunt,” he answered unsteadily, “I’ve paid big for all my cussedness.”
The little old lady took his hand and patted his shoulder. He turned to Barnes.
“And, ye gods,” he added solemnly, “Alaska has paid big, too!”