He worked with a will, and in twenty-five minutes the work was done.
“You’re spry,” said Jane Cleveland, when he brought the shovel to the door. “It took Hannah twice as long, and she didn’t do it as well.”
“It isn’t the kind of work for ladies,” replied Chester.
“Wait till I fetch the money.”
Miss Cleveland went into the house, and returned with a nickel and four pennies.
“I’m reely ashamed,” she said. “I’ll have to owe you a cent. But here’s a mince pie I’ve just baked. Take it home to your ma. Maybe it’ll come handy. I’ll try to think of the other cent next time you come along.”
“Don’t trouble yourself about it, Miss Cleveland. The pie is worth a good deal more than the cent. Mother’ll be very much obliged to you.”
“She’s very welcome, I’m sure,” said the kindly spinster. “I hope you’ll get work soon, Chester.”
“Thank you.”
Chester made his way homeward, as he did not care to carry the pie about with him. His mother looked at him in surprise as he entered the house.