I'm about ready to say 'Thank you' to Marcellus." And so it was settled, and Mary-'Gusta Lathrop was no longer a visitor, but a permanent member of the odd household at South Harniss.

She was delighted when she heard the news, although, characteristically, she said very little beyond confiding to her two "uncles" that she was going to be a good girl and not take David into the parlor again.

The remainder of her "things" and belongings were sent over by the Judge and, in due time, the guardianship papers were signed.
"There!" exclaimed Zoeth, laying down the pen.

"That settles it, I cal'late.

Now, Mary-'Gusta, you're our little girl, mine and your Uncle Shad's, for good and all." "Not quite so long as that, Zoeth," put in the smiling Shadrach.