The sun was setting when they came into the little forest hamlet. The Migleys put up at the Pitkin general store, where one might have rude hospitality as well as merchandise. There Strong left pack and coon behind the counter and hastened to the home of Annette. The comely young woman rose from the supper-table and took both his hands in hers.
"Strong's ahead!" he answered, cheerfully, as she greeted him.
In response to her invitation he sat down to eat. Her father lighted his pipe and left them. Silas told of the swishers and the big trout and the children.
"M-me an' Sinth is b-bein' cut over," here-marked, with a smile, as he thought of the children.
"What do you mean?"
"B-bein' cleared an' p-ploughed an' sowed."
She laughed a little as the Emperor unfolded his pleasantry. He thought of his improved account in the matter of swearing and of the better temper of Sinth.
"G-gittin' p-proper," he added.
Annette was amused.
"G-got t' leave Lost R-river," he said, presently.