She helped now vigorously, pulling
on the young saplings as they loosened the roots, then trimming
them into shape. More than once, however, she detected glances,
and his thoughts were more flattering than she imagined. "What
vigor she has in that supple, rounded form! Her very touch ought
to put life into these trees; I know it would into me. How young
she looks in that comical old dress which barely reaches her
ankles! Yes, Hal Minturn; and remember, that trim little ankle can
put a firm foot down for or against you--so no blundering."
He began to be doubtful whether he would make his grand attack
that day, and finally decided against it, unless a very favorable
opportunity occurred, until her plan of birthday-work had been
carried out and he had fulfilled the obligation into which he had
entered in the morning. He labored on manfully, seconding all her
wishes, and taking much pains to get the young trees up with an
abundance of fibrous roots. At last his assiduity induced her to
relent a little, and she smiled sympathetically as she remarked,
"I hope you are enjoying yourself.
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