It was plain to be seen that Simeon Holly's attention was occupied by David, not the woman.
"An', say, Mr.Holly," resumed Perry Larson, a little excitedly, "you know I was goin' over ter West Hinsdale in a day or two ter see Harlow about them steers.

Why can't I go this afternoon an' tote her an' the kid along ?" "Very well," nodded Simeon Holly curtly, his eyes still on David's face.
Perry Larson turned to the woman, and by a flourish of his arms and a jumble of broken English attempted to make her understand that he was to take her where she undoubtedly wished to go.

The woman still looked uncomprehending, however, and David promptly came to the rescue, saying a few rapid words that quickly brought a flood of delighted understanding to the woman's face.
"Can't you ask her if she's hungry ?" ventured Mrs.Holly, then.
"She says no, thank you," translated David, with a smile, when he had received his answer.

"But the boy says he is, if you please." "Then, tell them to come into the kitchen," directed Mrs.Holly, hurrying into the house.
"So you're French, are you ?" said Simeon Holly to David.
"French?
Oh, no, sir," smiled David, proudly.

"I'm an American.