When the sirup grew thick, Father Thrift said, “Taste!” And the bear tasted.
“Oh, Father Thrift,” he cried in delight, “it is the best thing I have ever tasted! Truly, the boiling improves it.”
Then when the maple sugar was done, Father Thrift called Shaggy.
“Taste this,” he said.
Ah, how good it was! Nothing like it had ever gone into Shaggy Bear’s mouth before. Never had he tasted such sweetness.
And, oh, what a wonderful meal they had that night! Father Thrift made golden corn cakes, and he and Shaggy ate the hot cakes with fresh maple sirup poured over them.
The bear grew thoughtful after supper.
“Now I know why I used to get into so much trouble,” he said. “I have had too much idle time on my hands.
“After this I will work hard and learn. I—I think I could help you a lot, Father Thrift. Will—you—let—me—stay—if—I—do?”
“I shall be glad to have you stay, always,” said Father Thrift.