since it had been used. The scrupulous cleanliness of the place satisfied his fastidious nature, and gave him a sense of comfort in the homely interior. He liked the look of the bed in the corner, made up high and round, and covered with marvellous patchwork.

As he sat thus, noting all his surroundings, Hoyle still nestled at his side, leaning his elbows on the doctor’s knees, his chin in his hands, and his soft eyes fixed steadily on the doctor’s face. Thus they advanced rapidly toward an amicable acquaintance, each questioning and being questioned.

“What is a ‘bee tree’?” said David. “You said somebody found one.”

“Hit’s a big holler tree, an’ hit’s plumb full o’ bees an’ honey. Frale, he found this’n.”

“Tell