in consumption, if ever a man was. YOU look real healthy--though
you can't aways tell by looks, either. I had a brother
complected like you, but he was killed in a railroad accident out
west when he was real young.

"I've got a boy I'll be sending to school to you next week. He'd
oughter gone this week, but I had to keep him home to help me put
the pertaters in; for his father won't work and doesn't work and
can't be made to work.

"Sandy--his full name is Edward Alexander--called after both his
grandfathers--hates the idee of going to school worse 'n pisen--
always did. But go he shall, for I'm determined he's got to have
more larning hammered into his head yet. I reckon you'll have
trouble with him, Master, for he's as stupid as an owl, and as
stubborn as Solomon's mule. But mind this, Master, I'll back you
up. You just lick Sandy good and plenty when he needs it, and
send me a scrape of the pen home with him, and I'll give him
another dose.

"There's people that always sides in with their young ones when
there's any rumpus kicked up in the school, but I don't hold to
that, and never did. You can depend on Rebecca Reid every time,
Master."

"Thank you. I am sure I can," said Eric, in his most winning
tones.

He kept his face straight until it was safe to relax, and Mrs.
Reid drove on with a soft feeling in her leathery old heart,