"Well, one reason is I don't think it's right to act things out of the Bible just to show off and amuse folks."
"The idea of minding!" and Miss Ellery frowned, adding angrily, "We will pay you for it. I find people will do anything for money down here."
"We are poor and need it, and this is our best time to make it. I'd do most anything to earn a little, but not that;" and Ruth looked as proud as the young lady herself.
"Then we'll say no more if you are too elegant to do what we don't mind at all. I'll pay you for this stuff now, as I ordered it, and you need n't bring me any more. How much do I owe you?" asked the offended beauty, taking out her purse in a pet.
"Nothing. I'm glad to oblige the ladies if I can, for they have been very kind to me. Perhaps if you knew why I want to earn money, you'd understand me better. Grandpa can't last long, and I don't want the town to bury him. I'm working and saving so he can be buried decently, as he wants to be, not like a pauper."
There was something in Ruth's face and voice as she said this, standing there shabby, tired, and heavy-laden, yet honest, dutiful and patient for love's sake, that touched the hearts of those who looked and listened; but she left no time for any answer, for with the last word she went on quickly, as if to hide the tears that dimmed her clear eyes and the quiver of her lips.
"Floss, how could you!" cried Miss Ray, and ran
