"I—don't know."
Earl eyed her sharply. "Isn't that muff new?"
"Yes."
"And that ring?"
Maud nodded. "She'd be delighted with 'em. Oh, Maud, put 'em in!"
Maud looked at him. Her pretty mouth quivered a little; some tears twinkled in her blue eyes.
"I don't believe my mother would let me," faltered she. "You—come with me, and I'll ask her."
"All right," said Earl, with a tug at his sled-rope.
He waited with his load in front of Maud's house until she came forth radiant, lugging a big basket. She had her last winter's red cashmere dress, a hood, some mittens, cake and biscuit, and nice slices of cold meat.
"Mother said these would be much more suitable for her," said Maud, with a funny little imitation of her mother's manner.