Page:The mislaid uncle (IA mislaiduncle00raym).pdf/147

 "Laws, Massa Joe, it's just wonderful. That child seems if nothing ever ailed her. The doctor done been here again and told what to give her for breakfast. She eat it like she was 'most starved, the little lamb. Now she's sleepin' again, the beautifullest ever was. I 'xpect 'twas that sleddin' round the square done fetched it on. Next time"—

"Hush, boy. Don't count on any 'next time' for her here. I must hunt up that other Joseph Smith and hand her over to him forthwith," said the master.

Peter's heart sank. How could they ever endure that great house now with this little child gone out of it? Well, there was one thing which nobody could prevent—his wishing that the "other Joseph" might never be found!

After Mr. Smith had eaten he paid a flying visit to the little one's room, gazed at her now peaceful, if pale face, and stole downstairs again with softened tread. He limped but slightly, and made a critical survey of himself before he issued from the great hall into the street.