Peeping in, she watched Alec and Willie for some time at their work, without venturing to show herself.

But George, who came up behind her as she stood, and perceived her interest in the operations of the boys, took her by the hand, and led her in, saying kindly: "Here's a new apprentice, Alec.

She wants to learn boat-biggin." "Ou! Annie, is that you, lassie?
Come awa'," said Alec.

"There's a fine heap o' spales ye can sit upo', and see what we're aboot." And so saying he seated her on the shavings, and half-buried her with an armful more to keep her warm.
"Put to the door, Willie," he added.

"She'll be cauld.