“Fork out Andy’s sticks,” shouted some others.
“What is the crate worth?” asked Cora.
“It was worth three dollars and seventy-five cents,” said the woman, “before that scamp deliberately set in it.”
Cora did not intend to argue. “Then if the berries are bought you will give the boy his tallies?” she pressed.
“Of course,” drawled the woman, beginning to see Cora’s intentions.
“He’s not goin’ to pay fer them!” interrupted Narrow. “What does she take us for?”
“Hush!” commanded Cora. “Just give the boy his sticks, Mrs. Ramsy, and I’ll attend to the rest.”
“What’ll I give him the tallies for when he owes me more than they’re worth?”
“To satisfy the boys,” demanded Cora. “I will take that crate of berries. They will suit me as well as any others.”
Seeing herself beaten, the farm woman handed the tally-sticks to Cora, who put out her hand to take them.