As I said, I've never told that yarn to anybody afore and I never meant to tell it.

I--" But she interrupted him.

"Please don't apologize," she said.

"I'm very glad you told it to me." "I cal'late you think it's a queer reason for lettin' this house stand empty all this time." "No, I think it was a very good one, and Babbie and I are honored to know that your estimate of us is sufficiently high to overcome your prejudice." "Well, ma'am, I--I guess it's goin' to be all right.

If you feel you can get along with me for a landlord I'd ought sartin to be willin' to have you for tenants.