“How long will it take you?”
“Less than an hour.”
“Let me help you. Then it won’t take so long.”
“I’m afraid I can’t afford to pay a hired man,” said Tom, laughing.
“The pleasure of your company will pay me,” said Harry.
“Thank you. I would take off my hat in return for the compliment if I happened to have it on. I will soon be through supper.”
“Won’t you change your mind, Harry, and let me give you a cup of tea?” asked Mrs. Thatcher.
“On second thoughts I will. It will keep me warm.”
The boys were soon through supper, and, adjourning to the wood-shed, set to work energetically on the wood-pile.
“Will you saw or split, Harry?” asked Tom.