I got ter see if they are sure 'nough a-sleepin' first, though." She stole silently from the room, to return a few minutes later.

"They are plumb asleep, both of 'em," she said in a low tone, when she had cautiously closed the door.

"I done opened the doors ter their rooms, an' listened, an' shet 'em again 'thout ary one of 'em a-movin' even.
I'll fix the winder, now, an' then we kin make a light." Carefully, she closed the window and drew down the shade.

Then she lit the lamp.
Auntie Sue, who was sitting on the bed, looked at the girl in bewildered amazement.
With a nervous laugh, Judy fingered her torn dress and dishevelled hair.
"I sure am a sight, ain't I, ma'm?
I done hit a-comin' through the bresh in the dark.

But, don't--don't--look so kinder lost like; you-all ain't got no call ter be scared of me." "Why, Judy, dear, I'm not afraid of you.