"'Lost heart! He never had any heart to lose.' My sister Fanny said no more of my uncle—by an effort. 'What a home!' she cried.
"She paused for a moment. 'Harry,' she said, 'I'm going to get out of this. Soon.'
"I asked what she meant by that.
"'Never mind what I mean. I've got a situation. A different sort of situation.... Harry, you—you care for me, Harry?'
"Professions of affection are difficult for boys of thirteen. 'I'd do anything for you, Fanny,' I said after a pause. 'You know I would.'
"'And you wouldn't tell on me?'
"'Whad you take me for?'
"'Nohow?'
"'No'ow.'
"'I knew you wouldn't,' said Fanny. 'You're the only one of the whole crew I'll be sorry to leave. I do care for you, Harry. Straight, I do. I used to care for mother. Once. But that's different. She's scolded me and screamed at me till it's gone. Every bit of it. I can't help it,—it's gone. I'll think of you, Harry—often.'