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The Keeper of the Bees

curled up like a kitten, the little Scout sound asleep. In an effort to step lightly that he might not disturb the child, his foot turned on a stone of the border that had rolled from place and the slight grinding awakened the little Scout. Instantly the youngster was up, smiling ingratiatingly, and stretching two sleep-misted eyes to the widest extent in an effort to prove that sleep had not touched them since the previous night, at any rate.

In further effort to prove that a Scout Master was always awake and fit, the youngster stepped forward and inquired brusquely: “Now what shall we do?” Jamie sat down on the bench and drew the little Scout down beside him.

“I’m tired,” he said. “I’ve been in to visit the Bee Master and he is feeling fine. He sent you his love and he was very much pleased with your gift, and some day soon he wants you to come to see him.”

The little Scout nodded in acquiescence.

“But if you’re tired, what can we do?

Jamie smiled.

“Must you have something active and vigorous to do every waking minute of your life?” he inquired. “Can’t you occasionally sit down and rest and commune with your soul? If you are so very anxious to do something, let me make a suggestion. I have everything to learn about bees that you already know. How would it work, if you have an hour to spare, to spend it on my education?”

The little Scout studied Jamie intently.