the boat was named for you.” “Betsy wasn’t ever clever to me,” said Hiram calmly. “She began spellin’ me down at school here when we were children, and she’s ben spellin’ me down ever since.” [12] [12] Mrs. Bruce looked curiously at the frowning countenance of the capable woman who had meant so much in her husband’s household. “Just like a snapdragon always,” went on Hiram slowly; “touch her and she’d fly all to pieces; and I guess you put on the finishin’ touch, takin’ her to Europe, Mrs. Bruce. She’s so toploftical to-day that she won’t scarcely speak to me.” “Betsy was a good traveler; I wouldn’t ask a better,” said Mrs. Bruce absently. The subject of the boat’s name rankled. Her desire to coerce humanity for its own good was like a fire always laid and ready to be kindled, and Hiram had applied the match. “What do you think of the new name, Betsy? Don’t you think your old friend would have done better to stick to the Gentle Annie?” “That’s exactly what I think,” was the explosive response. “That’s the only name that’ll ever be connected with Cap’n Salter in this world, and he’d better make the most of it. Hiram, if you’re perishin’ to wear a trail I’ll make you one out o’ paper-cambric. Give me my rug. I want to go in the house.” [13] [13] Salter motioned toward the speaker with his head, then met Mrs. Bruce’s eyes. “You heard?” he said. “That’s what I say. Snappy, snappy.” “I’m very sorry,” said Mrs. Bruce impressively, “that it’s painted on. It’s a bad idea and won’t bring you luck.” “Well now, we’ll see,” rejoined Hiram. “I feel just the other way round. I think it’s a good idea and will bring me luck. Folks’ll begin to say Cap’n Salter and the Clever Betsy, Cap’n Salter and the Clever Betsy, and first news you know there’ll be—” He paused. Lightnings would have shot from Betsy Foster’s eyes had they been able to express all she felt; but the audacity of his
Prev.
Back
Top