"I didn't think it important to inquire. It seems to me that the boy's own character is much more to the point. I have found Jed faithful and reliable, without bad habits, and I feel that Chester is safe in his hands."
"Oh you men, you men!" exclaimed Miss Holbrook. "You don't seem to have any judgment."
"I suppose," said Mr. Holbrook with good-natured sarcasm, "that all the good judgment is monopolized by the old maids. What a pity they have no children to bring up."
"Brother!" said Miss Holbrook in a freezing tone.
"I beg your pardon, Maria, but please credit me with a little good sense."
Miss Holbrook went up to the room assigned her with an offended expression, and had nothing further to say about Jed that evening.
The next morning Jed reported for duty just as Mr. Holbrook was leaving for his journey.
"Look after Chester while I am gone, Jed," said Mr. Holbrook pleasantly. "This is my sister, Miss Maria Holbrook, who will take my place here while I am gone."
Jed took off his hat politely, and Miss Holbrook honored him with a slight inclination of her head and a forbidding look.
"Good-by, Maria! I will telegraph you on my arrival in Chicago."