Mrs.Forbes at a window saw Zeke stop.She wondered what Jewel was saying to him,wondered with a humble gratitude novel to her dominating nature.
"Wait one minute,Zeke,"said the child."I've been wondering whether I ought to say anything to grandpa.""If you do I'll lose my place,"returned the young fellow;"and I've never done wrong by the horses yet.""I know you haven't.God has taken care of you,hasn't he,Zeke?Do you think it's right for me not to tell grandpa?I've decided that I'll do whatever you say."It was the wisdom of the serpent and the harmlessness of the dove.
Zeke,nervously fingering the whip handle,looked down into the guileless face and mentally vowed never to betray the trust he saw there.
"Then don't tell him,Jewel,"he returned rather thickly,for the fullness in his throat."You come out to the barn the way you said you would,and we'll talk over things.I don't care if the boys do laugh.
I've sworn off.I believe you helped Essex Maid the other night.Ibelieve you can help me."
Jewel's eyes were joyful."If you know you wanthelp,Zeke,then you'll get it.Mother says that's the first thing.Mortal mind is so proud.""Mine ain't strutting much,"returned Zeke as he drove on.
Jewel amused herself about the grounds until the phaeton should return with her grandfather.