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 “Halo, Jeem! Bateese come back on de farm, Jeem, and Cairlo ’e come aussi.”

“You come back, eh?” answered Jim, without much warmth. “Ain’t forgot the English I learned you?” Obviously he was ill at ease, avoided looking at the agitated Patty, and bestowed a furtive kick on Cairlo, who jumped and frisked about him in ponderous playfulness.

“This is the Jim,” explained Mr. Patterson to his wife, leading the reluctant giant to the side of the carriage. “The man who—you know.”

Patty nodded swiftly. “And will he?” she asked with a comprehensive gesture from Bateese to the farm.

“Yes. He is going to take Bateese to the orphanage for us,” said Mr. Patterson in slow, decided tones, getting a fresh grip on Jim’s arm. Rh