Casting aside his coat, he started
to work, and in about half an hour he had fashioned a neat strong
crate, capable of standing the strain of travel. Into this he put the
berry-boxes, placed upon it a good strong cover, and went back into the
house.
Rod was surprised and delighted next morning when he went into the
workshop. He had his misgivings, however, and asked the parson whether
it was right for him to receive any help.
"That's all right, Rodney," the clergyman explained. "You can hardly
be expected to make the berry-boxes any more than you can make the
large crate. There are some things others must do for us. You will
need two or three more crates, so the one I made last night will show
you just how the work is to be done. You did remarkably well yesterday
with nothing to guide you, but to-day I expect you to do better."
Thus encouraged, Rod once more set to work, and by night he had
finished two crates which greatly pleased Mr. and Mrs. Royal. They
were overjoyed at the boy's enthusiasm, his skill and his work, as well
as his willingness to be taught.
The next day a reply was received from Peter McDuff. Rod was greatly
excited as he tore open the envelope.
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