They'd creep back and go reachin' toward the sunlight ag'in just as if they had a compass to show 'em the way." It was hard work, I thought, to go down into the garden, night and morning, with my little pail full of water, but uncle said that I should get my pay when the melon was ripe.

I had also to keep the wood-box full and feed the chickens.

They were odious tasks.

When I asked Aunt Deel what I should get for doing them she answered quickly: "Nospanks and bread and butter--ayes!" When I asked what were "nospanks" she told me that they were part of the wages of a good child.

I was better paid for my care of the watermelon vine, for its growth was measured with a string every day and kept me interested.