"Do tell!" said Mrs. Fairchild. "And she there all alone! It's too bad, ain't it? Why don't some of the neighbours go in?"
"I suppose they are all busy with their own affairs," said Eben. "I don't know what we shall do if this girl don't come, for the bread is all gone, and I am sure I can't bake."
"Do tell!" said Mrs. Fairchild, again. "I declare, I've a great mind to go up there myself and stay till somebody comes."
"Do, mother," said Flora. "You are such a good nurse, and I am sure Mrs. Antis would do as much for us any day."
"That she would, or for anybody else," said Eben. "I wish you could go up, mother. It would be such a comfort to them."
"Well, I believe I will," said Mrs. Fairchild. "You can take care of yourself, can't you, Flossy?"
"Oh yes, indeed," replied Flora, smiling.
"Well, I must be off," said Eben. "I hope to bring the girl back with me."
Eben was disappointed. The girl was willing to work for Mrs. Antis, but could not come till next Monday, when she promised faithfully to make her appearance. Eben went back to find his mother established as nurse and housekeeper, mixing a batch of bread, and attending to her patient between times.
"It don't much matter," said she when she heard Eben's report. "I guess I'll just stay on till the girl comes, anyhow. 'Tain't much to do the work where everything is so convenient. You pick some peas, Eben, and I can be shelling them, while my bread is rising."