He had pulled off his coat, rolled up his sleeves and with a frow and mallet in his hands, was busy splitting out shingles.

David said nothing to him, but went into the house to put away the tea, coffee and sugar and place the articles he had bought for his mother in a conspicuous position, so that she would be sure to see them, the moment she entered the door.

While he was thus engaged, Dan came in smiling, and trying to look good-natured.

David was on his guard at once.
"I'll tell you what I've made up my mind to do by you, Davy," said Dan, "an' when you hear what it is, if you don't say I'm the best brother you ever had, I want to know what's the reason why.

I ain't goin' agin you like I told you I was." "I am very glad to hear it," said David.
"No, I ain't.