He had kindly eyes, but he hadn't smiled or laughed in so long that the boy had forgotten that Unc Nunkie could look any other way than solemn.

And Unc never spoke any more words than he was obliged to, so his little nephew, who lived alone with him, had learned to understand a great deal from one word.
"Why are we so poor, Unc ?" repeated the boy.
"Not," said the old Munchkin.
"I think we are," declared Ojo.

"What have we got ?" "House," said Unc Nunkie.
"I know; but everyone in the Land of Oz has a place to live.

What else, Unc ?" "Bread." "I'm eating the last loaf that's ripe.

There; I've put aside your share, Unc.