, more meaning than
words. From the midst of the forenoon labors, they invited their help
to refreshments under some green shade tree in the field; and in the
long afternoon, three hours before supper, a refreshing lunch was again
set before them, which would have answered well for supper; and it
brought vigor once more to weary arms, and vigor to weary hearts; and
called forth thanks from minds that abounded in gratitude, as in labor.
Long and affectionately were they remembered by their men, as the
bringers of joy and ministers of comfort, where joy and comfort were
often craved in vain.

On one sweet afternoon, toward the last of the month, and the last of
the harvest, a cool bland breeze swept over from the north, and
rendered the time delightful. The sun still shone, and it was large
and yellow as in October, but the breath of the north stole the sting
of fire from its beams, and rallied a thrill of life and joy through
the drooping hearts of beasts and men.

It was a pleasant hour to be enjoyed out of door, and it was welcomed
as a blessing, by those who had kept in the shade; and Mrs. Fabens and
her daughter hurried their preparations to be early in the field, with
the evening meal.

"The men want to finish if they can, this week," said Mrs. Fabens, "and
they have worked hard, very hard, since morning, and we must give them
a good luncheon this time."

"We will take extra pains," responded Fanny, "and see how cheerful we
can make them. It is so cool and pleasant out now, they will enjoy it,
and we shall enjoy it better than usual, as Cousin William will be with
us; and let it be something more than bread and butter. I feel so
sorry for them, while they work so hard in the scorching sun to make us
happy! Too much care cannot be done to refresh them, and warm up their
hearts."

"Then, William has returned from Auburn, has he? Well, he shall see
that country people can be happy and free-hearted, if they have _not_
the city refinements. And we shall again find that the greatest good
and joy on earth, we take in the good we do to others. They shall have
something that will do them good."

"George Ludlow looked up to me so thankful, when I turned his bowl of
coffee," said Fanny, "and it seemed to taste so good, and revive him
so, I felt more than paid; I was myself refreshed by my trouble."

"It does them all good, not only to be refreshed with what nature
requires, but to know that we care for them.