"Well, I don't care," and Jasper's laugh was loud and merry; "he's
nice anyway,--I know; and the little thing's nice; and I'm going to
see them--can't I, father?"

"Dear me!" said his father; "how can you, Jasper? You do have the
strangest tastes I ever saw!"

"It's dreadful dull here," pleaded the boy, touching the right string;
"you know that yourself, father, and I don't know any boys around
here; and Prince and I are so lonely on our walks--do permit me,
father!"

The old gentleman, who really cared very little about it, turned
away, muttering, "Well, I'm sure I don't care; go where you like,"
when a knock was heard at the door, and the paper was handed in,
which broke up the conversation, and restored good humor.

The next day but one, Ben was out by the wood-pile, trying to
break up some kindlings for Polly who was washing up the dishes,
and otherwise preparing for the delights of baking day.

"Hulloa!" said a voice bethought he knew.

He turned around to see the merry-faced boy, and the big, black
dog who immediately began to wag his tail as if willing to
recognize him.

"You see I thought you'd never look round," said the boy with a
laugh. "How's the little girl?"