The lumber for the new porch was ordered of Z. Snow and Co. The Reverend Calvin ordered it himself in person. Albert received the order.
“I wish this delivered to-morrow without fail,” said Mr. Calvin. Albert promised.
But promises are not always easy to keep. One of Z. Snow and Co.'s teams was busy hauling lumber for the new schoolhouse at Bayport. The other Issachar had commandeered for deliveries at Harniss Center and refused to give up his claim. And Laban Keeler, as it happened, was absent on one of his “vacations.” Captain Zelotes was attending a directors' meeting at Osham and from there was going to Boston for a day's stay.
“The ship's in your hands, Al,” he had said to his grandson. “Let me see how you handle her.”
So, in spite of Albert's promise, the Calvin lumber was not delivered on time. The Reverend gentleman called to ask why. His manner was anything but receptive so far as excuses were concerned.
“Young man,” he said loftily, “I am accustomed to do business with business people. Did you or did you not promise to deliver my order yesterday?”
“Why, yes sir, I promised, but we couldn't do it. We—”
“I don't care to know why you didn't do it. The fact that you did not is sufficient. Will that order of mine be delivered to-day?”
“If it is a possible thing, Mr. Calvin, it—”
“Pardon me. Will it be delivered?”