"If you can give a recipe for flood preparation," said Jim good naturedly, "you will have every dam builder in the world at your feet."
Sara grunted and changed the subject and his manner abruptly.
"Got any decent smoking tobacco, Still?"
"That is hard to find here," replied Jim. "It dries out fast and loses flavor. I've got some over at the house I brought back from the East. I'll go over and get it now. Will you let Pen walk over with me? I'd like to have her see my house."
"Makes no difference to me what she does. Hand me that book, Pen, before you start."
Out under the stars Jim pulled Pen's hand within his arm and asked, "Pen, is he always like that?"
"Always," answered Pen. "Do you remember the 'Wood-carver of Olympus'? How he was hurt like Sara and how he blasphemed God and was embittered for years? He was reconciled to his lot after a time and people loved him. I have so hoped for that change in poor Sara, but none has come."
"Pen!" cried Jim suddenly. "I gave you my sign and seal! Why did you marry Saradokis?"
Pen answered slowly, "Jim, why wouldn't you understand and take me West with you when I begged you to?"
"Understand what?" asked Jim, tensely.