"Something good for you, Uncle Jo. Hannah made it for you on purpose." She showed him the broth.
"Hannah's a good soul, I thank her kindly. Set down, Aileen, set down."
"I'm afraid you're too tired to have company to-night, Uncle Jo."
"Lord, no—you ain't comp'ny, Aileen, an' I ain't never too tired to have your comp'ny either."
She smiled and took her seat on the lower step, at his feet.
"Jest thinkin' of you, Aileen—"
"Me, Uncle Jo? What put me into your head?"
"You're in a good part of the time ef you did but know it."
"Oh, Uncle Jo, did they teach you how to flatter like that in the little old schoolhouse you showed me years ago at The Corners?"
Old Joel Quimber chuckled weakly.