“Please see what you think of this,” she said.
The Harvester arose and bent over her.
“That will do finely,” he answered. “You can stop. I don't require all those little details for carving, I just want a good outline. It is finished. See here!”
He drew some folded papers from his pocket and laid them before her.
“Those are what I have been working from,” he said.
The Girl took them and studied each carefully.
“If those are worth five dollars to you,” she said gently, “why then I needn't hesitate to take as much for mine. They are superior.”
“I should say so,” laughed the Harvester as he took up the drawing and laid down the money.
“If you would make it half that much I'd feel better about it,” she said.
“How could I?” asked the Harvester. “Your fingers are well trained and extremely skilful. Because some one has not been paying you enough for your work is no reason why I should keep it up. From now on you must have what others get. As soon as you can arrange for work, I want to tell you about some designs I have studied out from different things, show you the plants and insects, and have you make some samples. I'll send them to proper places, and see what experts say about the ideas and drawing. Work in the woods is healthful, with proper precautions; it's easy compared with the exactions of being bound to sewing or embroidering in the confinement of a room; it's vividly interesting in the search for new subjects, changes of material, and differing harmonious combinations; it's truly artistic; and it brings the prices high grade stuff always does.”