It was of Grandma Elsie he asked permission, and it was given at once.
"Thank you, ma'am," he said. "Can I do anything for you in the town, ladies?"
"Yes," said Violet, "I have just broken a crochet needle. You may get me one to replace it."
She went on to give him directions about the size and where he would be likely to find it; then taking some money from her purse, "This is sure to be more than enough," she said, "but you may keep the change."
"Mamma Vi, I don't want pay for doing an errand for you," returned the boy coloring; "it is a great pleasure, it would be even if papa had not told me to wait on you and do all I could to fill his place."
"I don't mean it as pay, my dear boy," Violet answered, with a pleased look, "but haven't I a right to make a little present now and then to the children who call me mamma?"
Max's face brightened.
"Yes, ma'am, I suppose so," he said. "Thank you; I'll take it willingly enough if it isn't pay, and I'm very proud to be trusted to buy something for you."
Edward was helping Zoe into the saddle as Max came hurrying out.
"Take good care of her, Max," he said, "I'm trusting you and Tom there with my chiefest treasure."