Yes, 'Pik-k,' doggone yuh--after me going crazy with yuh, just about, and thinking you're about to blow your radiator cap plumb up through the roof! I'll tell yuh right here and now, this storm has got to let up pretty quick so I can pack you outa here, or else I've got to pen you up somehow, so I can do something besides watch you.

Look at the way you scattered them beans, over there by the cupboard! By rights I oughta stand over yuh and make yuh pick every one of 'em up! and who was it drug all the ashes outa the stove, I'd like to know ?" The coyote skin lifted a little and moved off toward the fireplace, growling "Ooo-ooo-ooo!" like a bear--almost.

Bud rescued the bear a scant two feet from the flames, and carried fur, baby and all, to the bunk.

"My good lord, what's a fellow going to do with yuh ?" he groaned in desperation.

"Burn yourself up, you would! I can see now why folks keep their kids corralled in high chairs and gocarts all the time.