Page:Man's Country (1923).pdf/51

 of the mother's body between them, for Jim had been there upon the other side of her, leaning against her, too.

"Jim," said George in a husky whisper. "Where's the lantern? I'm going to spade that cabbage patch tonight, so that when father looks out in the morning, he'll see it's done."

"I'll get Flannigan's spade and help you," proposed Jim with an astounding generosity of spirit.

George responded with like generosity. "Shucks, no, Jim! You've worked hard all day. I'm going to do it—alone."

But they did it together, and two tired brothers crept into their common bed to sleep the sleep of utter weariness, sweetened by a sense of fraternal love that was new to them.

A few days later came the inevitable council over ways and means. It was conceded that the family savings would pay the doctors and leave a small nest-egg against the proverbial rainy day, but this must not be impaired or drawn upon for daily sustenance.

Jim seemed not to pay attention and sighted out the open door with his slingshot. George's face wore a stubborn cast, although his heart was beating quickly.

"I can take in washing and get some orders for rag rugs," proposed the mother hopefully, and then she rested her pleading, expectant