Part 41 (2/2)

”I might leave ye a rabbit, seein' yer daddy ain't well 'nough to do no gunnin',” said he.

”Ye're awful good, Jake,” murmured Tessibel, following the man to the door. ”Stop in any day.”

”All right,” and Jake struck out toward the rock path.

Tess closed the door and put up the bar. Andy was eyeing her from the ceiling.

”What ye got, kid?” he whispered.

Tess held up the letters.

”Two of 'em, an' this one air from Mr. Young. Shall I read it to ye, Andy?” she asked, looking up.

The little man chuckled with joy.

”I'd like to hear it,” said he.

Tess drew a chair under the boyish face peering upon her, and sat down.

”Dear Tessibel,” she read.

”I hoped to be home this week, but find my work won't be finished.

Please keep at your books and study hard. Get the doctor any time you need him for your father. I know you're trying to be a brave little girl, and may G.o.d bless you.

Affectionately, Deforrest Young.”

Tessibel choked on the last word.

”It air awful hard to be brave, Andy,” she faltered, brus.h.i.+ng away a tear.

The dwarf made a dash at his own eyes.

”Ye got another letter,” he cut in irrelevantly.

”Yep,” said Tess.

After pulling forth the second sheet, she spread it out and read it through without looking up.

”Miss Tessibel Skinner:

”It is necessary for you to attend a church meeting next Wednesday afternoon at three o'clock in the chapel. Please oblige,

”SILANDER GRIGGS, _Pastor_.”

”Anything much?” demanded the dwarf, interestedly.

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