"Neither Babbie nor I could afford to lose that head; it and its owner have been too thoughtful and kind.

But tell me, what WERE you thinking about just then ?" The question appeared to embarrass Mr.Winslow a good deal.

He colored, fidgeted and stammered.

"Nothin', nothin' of any account," he faltered.

"My--er--my brain was takin' a walk around my attic, I cal'late.