"Oh, but that is not to drink—that water. It is not so very good," said Francisco. "But farther up, about half a mile, or maybe a little more, there is a beautiful spring. That is nice and cold and good to drink. Some carry it in buckets, but I would fetch it on a little wagon, in a barrel. And I can give you another barrel in which to keep it. Out there under the largest pepper tree it would be very good."
"Do you hear, Charlie?" asked Mr. Page. "Francisco tells us he can bring very good drinking water. It will be an excellent plan, I think, so let him do it."
"Yes," replied Charlie, appearing from the other end of the room. "I was going to ask what we should do about drinking water. That which comes through the pipe just above here is very warm. The hill being so bare is always sunny. I've seen people bringing that other water right along."
Mr. Page turned to Francisco. "You have a horse, then?" he asked.
"Oh, yes; we have two horses. Shall I get my wagon? Will you like the water? I can bring the barrel along for you."
"Very well; go and fetch it," said Mr. Page.
"Oh, father, may I go with him?" pleaded Walter.
"To the spring? Yes; if he is willing to take you," replied his father.
"Yes, I meant to ask. And the little girl maybe, too, if she will," said Francisco.