"I'd like to hear it," said he.
Tess drew a chair under the boyish face peering upon her, and sat down.
"Dear Tessibel," she read.
"I hoped to be home this week, but find my work won't be finished. Please keep at your books and study hard. Get the doctor any time you need him for your father. I know you're trying to be a brave little girl, and may God bless you.
Affectionately,
"Deforrest Young."
Tessibel choked on the last word.
"It air awful hard to be brave, Andy," she faltered, brushing away a tear.
The dwarf made a dash at his own eyes.
"Ye got another letter," he cut in irrelevantly.
"Yep," said Tess.