II
SEVEN PEPPERMINTS
Gilbert Irwin appeared at Mr. Dunlee’s next morning, holding in his hand a tiny lizard-skin purse, containing a dime and a nickel.
“Come, Jimmy,” said he; “let’s go get our candy.”
Before Jimmy could answer, the Chinese vegetable man, Quon Wo, drove up to the back door, calling out in a high, squealing tone.—
“Platoes, sleet corn, cabbagee, spinny-gee!”
“What’s a spinny-gee? Give us a spinny-gee!” laughed both the boys, running up to Quon Wo, whom they knew very well.
“Go ’way! Too much, talkee, talkee!” replied the Chinaman, grinning, and showing nearly all his white teeth. At the same time, being ready for a frolic, he pelted both the boys with a handful of spinach.
Vendla stood in the doorway with a basket and a pan. She bought potatoes and celery. These went into her basket, and then she held out the pan for something else.