"They were simple, but they were to the point," said the lady of the poorhouse, "and I hope—I do hope that the paupers will lay them to heart."
There was an amused smile on the face of Jed, who was sharp enough to see through the shallow humbug which was being enacted before him. He understood very well the interested motives of Mrs. Fogson, and why she saw fit to flatter the town official from whom she and her husband had received their appointment.
"I wish you had heard the squire, too, Jed!" said Mrs. Fogson, detecting the smile on the boy's face.
"Perhaps, ma'am, you can tell me what he said," returned Jed demurely.
Mrs. Fogson was a little taken aback, but she accepted the invitation.
"He said you ought to consider yourself very lucky to have such a comfortable home."
"I do," said Jed with a comical look.
"I am glad to hear it," said Mrs. Fogson, suspiciously, "though it hasn't always looked that way, I am bound to say."
"Are you going to stay much longer, father?" asked Percy, who was getting tired.