CHAPTER V.
LEATHER.
In the colonial days, as we have seen, the traveling shoemaker was abroad in the land. He was accustomed to travel through his section of the country with a kit of tools and bits of leather on his back. He was familiarly called "Crispin," from the patron saint of his craft, and ofttimes proved a "character" much appreciated by the farmers and their families. Sometimes these traveling mechanics were quiet, silent men, doing their work and going on intent only on obtaining their living; but sometimes they were jolly, social people, facetious, even witty.
"Good mornin', neighbor Heyday," said a Crispin to a farmer. "I hope you and the madam and the childers are all very well, the day."
"Eh, purty fair. The woman is ailin' some. She wants buildin' up, buildin' up."
"Well, well," said Crispin, "the Lord has laid His hand of blessing heavily upon ye, so He has that."
"What is the meanin' of that speech?" said the farmer.
"Eh, sorry is it for the joker when he has to explain his own joke. Hasn't He filled your quiver full of childers? and isn't that the greatest blessing the Almighty can bestow on man that is a sinner?"
"But I have only six childers."