Miss Phrony assented, and went into the pantry. Then, with one swift, stealthy motion, Calvin Parks transferred the portion of pie from his plate to the stove, replaced the stove-cover noiselessly, and was in his seat and gazing placidly at his empty plate before Miss Phrony appeared with the butter.
"Why, you've eat your pie real speedy!" she cried joyfully.
"It's all gone!" said Calvin soberly. "Not a mite left. No—no thank you, not another morsel! but it certinly is a remarkable pie. Now if you'll excuse me, I'll go in and have a pipe with the old lady."
"So do!" said Miss Phrony graciously. "I'll be in as soon as I've done the dishes, Cap'n."
"Don't hasten!" said Calvin Parks earnestly.
Old Mrs. Marlin was still cowering over the stove, her fingers spread like a bird's claws.
"Did you like your supper, Cap'n?" she asked, as Calvin entered.
"That's what!" replied Calvin enigmatically.
"It's all dust and ashes!" said the old lady unexpectedly.
"Well!" said Calvin. "I dono as I'd go so fur as that, quite, but it was undeniable dry."