Page:Scarlet Sister Mary (1928).pdf/308

 "Budda Ben, July come"

"I know, I seen him."

"Now he's gone I wouldn't let him come inside my door."

"Enty?"

Silence fell between them. The night closed around them. Budda Ben's stick fell from his hands, as they both reached slowly out and took one of Mary's. What strong sinewy hands they were, although they trembled now.

"Please don' be sorry for me, Budda. I can' stand dat. I made July go. I sent him off. He been want to stay, but I wouldn' let him."

"I know, gal. I know how proudful you ever was. Too proudful."