Resenting the attempt to learn their private affairs, the boys parried the most pointed inquiries, though they feared to do so too openly lest they should arouse Peleg’s hostility.
Consequently it was with great relief that they heard a shrill voice call:
“You kin show the gents up to their room now, Pap.”
At the words Phil and Ted sprang to their feet and began to pick up their luggage.
“Jest let that be!” commanded Peleg. “Hey, Jennie, didn’t I tell you to come and git them duds? Do you want to make these gents wait on theirselves?”
“We don’t mind in the least, we’d really rather,” hastily interposed Ted.
Jennie, however, evidently understood her father’s moods, and quickly she appeared in the door, gave a timid glance at the boys, and started to relieve them of their parcels.
While awaiting her coming, Phil and Ted had wondered whether she were young or old, pretty or homely, but neither of them was prepared to see the small, wizened hunchback who stood before them, her face crimson.
“The idea of your carrying our things!” exclaimed Phil, his impulsiveness getting the better of his tact.
“Oh, I don’t mind. I’m stronger tha—than I look,” stammered Jennie.