Before Herbert had a chance to answer Mrs. Barton broke in:
“Abner, you take care of Sam while I go to the village.”
“What are you goin' there for, marm?”
“I'm going to buy some sausages for dinner. We haven't got anything in the house.”
“Me and Sam will go, if you'll give us the money.”
“I know you too well, Abner Barton. I won't trust you with the money. Ef I gave you a five-dollar bill, I'd never see any on't back again.”
“Say, mam, you haven't got a five-dollar bill, have you?” asked Abner, with distended eyes.
“Never you mind!”
“I'll tell dad ef you don't give me some.”
“You jest dare to do it!” returned Mrs. Barton, in a menacing tone. “Your father ain't got nothin' to do with it. It's money for Sam's board.”