exhibits: "From
Sobrante," and, manifestly, the judges could not give two first premiums
to one estate.

This memory served to change her thoughts from disease to a detailed
history of the wonderful quilt, during which they arrived at Mrs.
Trent's cottage and dinner.

But this could not yet be served. Aunt Sally must needs first see her
son, and after the fondest of greetings, cautiously consign to him the
care of her personal outfit. She even ran after him--as he walked away,
grinning and leading the now obstreperous cow--with a vial in her hand,
begging:

"Now son, please me, before you eat that 'mess' of men's cooking by
taking one spoonful of this dandelion relish. Made it myself, purposely
for you, and I'll warrant no alcohol in it, either."

Experience had proved that protestation was worse than useless; so, with
another grin, but a really affectionate "Thank you," John accepted the
vial and once more started stableward.

"Now, Aunt Sally, come! You must be hungry yourself, after your long
ride," urged Mrs. Trent, hospitably, and with sincere pleasure lighting
her gentle face. Living so far from other women made the presence of
even this uncouth one a comfort, and experience had proved that Mrs.
Benton was, in time of need, that "rough diamond" which she claimed
herself to be.

"All right, honey; in a minute. I'll just step out to the kitchen and
pass the time of day with Wun Lung. Besides----"

Jessica caught Aunt Sally around her waist--as far as she could
reach--and tried to prevent her leaving the room, but was lightly
set aside, with the remark:

"Face is next door to the mouth. Guess I want to see what sort of food
that heathen's got ready for us, 'fore I touch it!"

"Oh, Aunt Sally! In my house--can't you trust me?" asked the hostess,
with mild protest. Though she knew before she spoke that her will as
opposed to Mrs. Benton's, at least in minor matters, was powerless.
So she quietly brought a book and offered it to Mr. Hale, with the
suggestion that he make himself content for the present.

"The dinner will be delayed and there will be a rumpus in the kitchen.
But the dinner will be all the better for waiting and the rumpus will
end in Wun Lung taking another rest while Aunt Sally does his work.
Fortunately, she is a prime cook, and we shall fare sumptuously every
day. I'd be glad to keep her here, always, if I could."

"Old Ephraim Marsh did not appear to share your sentiments," and he
desc