be busy at the store this morning, and I thought you might enjoy a
ride."

Maude threw her arms about his neck and kissed him.

"You are the bestest brother in the world."

"And the most thoughtful husband," said Alice as he drew her close to
him.

"Well, I'll saddle them and see you mounted."

A quarter of an hour later Quincy led the horses to the street.

"Don't go down Obed's Hill--it is very steep. Ride along Pettingill
Street to the Centre Road, which will bring you to Mason Street, and
when you've walked your horses up hill you'll be near the grocery
store, where you'll find me."

They waved a good-bye as they rode off, and Quincy made his way to
the grocery store. Mr. Strout came from behind the counter to meet
him. Hiram was busy putting order baskets in the gaudily painted
wagon.

"I heard as how you were in town, and Hiram said you were at his
house last night, but I ain't one of the kind that gits mad if I'm
waited on last at table. In music you know we usually begin down low
and finish off up high, and visitin' is considerable like music,
especially when there's three children and one of 'em a baby."