The remark embarrassed the Brownies. Too late, Connie nudged Veve as a hint to keep silent.
“I’ll certainly want the Brownies to work for me,” Mr. Hooper said in a hearty voice. “Couldn’t have a better crew! The trouble is—I won’t have an orchard.”
For a moment no one made any reply. The Brownies did not like to think of Mr. Hooper losing his place.
“If I could hold on to the orchard, I’d rebuild the house,” Mr. Hooper went on. “I’ve lived here most of my life, and I’d like to keep the place ’til the end of my days. But it can’t be.”
“Won’t Mr. Wingate consider selling, even if he does take over the orchard according to the terms of the will?” Miss Gordon inquired.
“Not a chance,” Mr. Hooper told her. “I talked with him only yesterday. Carl Wingate doesn’t want money. It’s this orchard he’s after—it’s one of the best in the valley.”
The rain had slackened. After peering out the shed windows, the Brownies decided they could make a dash for the parked cars.
“I guess we should be going,” said Miss Gordon rather reluctantly. “It is late for the children.”
Even then, she did not make a move to leave. Nor did the Brownies.