Page:Pratt portraits - sketched in a New England suburb (IA prattportraitssk00full).pdf/162

 he seemed to feel again that friendly pressure. In the practice, too, of his trade was unlooked-for solace. The sense of mastery was peculiarly soothing to his wounded self-esteem, and it was then that he realized for the first time the satisfaction of being an expert. Had it not been for the frequent calls to the counter he might almost have lost himself in his occupation.

For the first few days after his return it was surprising how fast the Bennett custom increased. One after another of the neighbors came in with spectacles in need of repair, until Anson suspected them of ransacking their garrets in search of discarded glasses, merely for the sake of having a talk over the counter.

Among the first to appear was Miss Grig, with a pair of "specs" belonging to her mother, which seemed "kind o' loose in the jints." Would Anson "jest see 'f he couldn't tighten 'em up a bit?"

Anson had begun to feel the grim humor of the thing, and he made a pretence of tinkering the glasses a little before returning them.

"Thank 'ee," said Miss Grig, as she took them. "How much will that be?"

"Nothing at all, Miss Grig. It isn't worth mentioning."

"Very much obligated, I am sure," said the old lady, evidently relieved. She had rather begrudged the price of her curiosity.

"We're all so glad to see you back, Anson,"