“Elsie’s arm was linked in mine, her big eyes fixed on the young man’s face.
“‘A thing is always right—after it is done,’ I said desperately.
“‘Whew! you are a wise one,’ he said quizzically. ‘I’ve brought kerosene—have you lamps for to-night? Oh, yes, I see you have. Sugar, bread coffee, tea, what will you have?’
“I gave the order; he wrote it, then lingered.
“‘They are about done for to-night, I suppose.’
“‘Yes, I shall send them away.’
“He drove away, and I was left with my hatters.
“‘You have worked two hours,’ I said; ‘what do I owe you?’
“The man with one eye looked at the man with a stiff neck.
“‘Fifty cents, eh, Jim?’