"I helped him with the chickens, and he's got
to stand gentle while you lay the card on."
Confronted by the act itself, Abner was suddenly aware that he knew
not how to begin. He took refuge in dissimulation.
"Hush!" he whispered back. "Don't you see Mr. Claiborne's come
out?--He's going to read something to us."
Ross plumped down beside him. "Never mind the card; tell 'em," he
urged.
"Tell 'em yourself."
"No--let's cut and run."
"I--I think the worst of it is over. When Champe sees us she'll--"
Mention of Champe stiffened Ross's spine. If it had been glorious to
call upon her, how very terrible she would make it should they attempt
calling, fail, and the failure come to her knowledge! Some things were
easier to endure than others; he resolved to stay till the call was
made.
For half an hour the boys sat with drooping heads, and the old
gentleman read aloud, presumably to Aunt Missouri and themselves.
Finally their restless eyes discerned the two Claiborne girls walking
serene in Sunday trim under the trees at the edge of the lawn. Arms
entwined, they were whispering together and giggling a little.
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