Brewer coughed and remained silent.
"Can I do anything, Jake?" inquired the dwarf, softly.
"Nope, it air only Tess can do it," replied the squatter.
Tessibel heard but remained in the same position.
"Tess air the only one can help," repeated Brewer.
The girl sank back in her chair, allowing her hands to drop in her lap.
"What is it?" she asked listlessly.
"Ma Brewer air sick," said the squatter. "She air knowin' ye air in trouble, but—but—"
It seemed to the girl as if this Christmas-tide had brought sorrow to everyone.
She rose to her feet, stiff from sitting in the same position for so long a time.