bearing.

'Didn't want to--didn't cotton on, like. Well--_they be artful, the
women_--' he mimicked his landlord. 'Come on into bed, boy. Don't loiter
about as if you'd lost something.'

Albert turned over, to sleep.

On Monday Miss Stokes turned up as usual, striding beside her team. Her
'whoa!' was resonant and challenging, she looked up at the truck as her
steeds came to a standstill. Joe had turned aside, and had his face
averted from her. She glanced him over--save for his slender succulent
tenderness she would have despised him. She sized him up in a steady
look. Then she turned to Albert, who was looking down at her and smiling
in his mischievous turn. She knew his aspects by now. She looked straight
back at him, though her eyes were hot. He saluted her.

'Beautiful morning, Miss Stokes.'

'Very!' she replied.

'Handsome is as handsome looks,' said Albert.

Which produced no response.

'Now, Joe, come on here,' said the corporal. 'Don't keep the ladies
waiting--it's the sign of a weak heart.'

Joe turned, and the work began. Nothing more was said for the time being.
As the week went on all parties became more comfortable. Joe remained