with careful steps and paused in the doorway of the canvas room, big and smiling.

“That you, Hoke? Come in,” said David, cheerfully. He extended a hand which Hoke took in his and held awkwardly, shocked at the white face before him.

“Ye do look puny,” he said at last. “But we-uns sure be glad yer livin’. Ye tol’ me to come early, so I come.”

“It’s awfully good of you. Bring a chair and sit near, so we can talk a bit. Now, Hoke, laid up here as I am, I need your help. I want to send you to Farington or Lone Pine — somewhere — I don’t know where such things are to be had — but, Hoke, you’ve been married and know all about what’s needed here.”