it."

"That I am willing to do."

"Then go out to the woodpile without any more palavering."

"Mr. Holden," said the housekeeper, seriously, after Herbert had gone
out, "if you want to keep that boy, I think you had better be careful
how you treat him."

"Why do you say that?" demanded Abner, eying her sharply. "Has he been
saying anything to you about me?"

"No."

"Then why did you say that?"

"Because I can see what kind of a boy he is."

"Well, what kind of a boy is he?" asked Abner, with a sneer.

"He is high-spirited, and will work faithfully if he's treated well, but
he won't allow himself to be imposed upon."

"How do you know that?"

"I can read it in his face. I have had some experience with boys, and
you may depend upon it that I am not mistaken."

"He had better do his duty," blustered Abner, "if he knows what's best