"I've kept you waiting—excuse me, please, The soapsuds ruin such goods as these."
"You're over fond of finery, Nan, Dresses and furbelows," he began.
"Maybe I am, of a truth," she said. Each sunflower nodded its yellow head.
"Ned Brown's growing rich"—John's words came slow— "That he loves you well you doubtless know.
"My house and acres, I held them fast, Was stubborn over them to the last,
"For when my father was carried forth, And men were asking 'What was he worth?'
"I saw them look and nod and smile As they whispered together all the while,
"'A fine old homestead, but mortgaged so, A foolish thing for a man to do!'
"I said, 'My father's dead and gone, But he's left behind a strong-armed son.'
"My heart was hot with a purpose set To clear that mortgage, to pay that debt.