"I was not aware of the relationship," said the plotting villain, as he
clasped the hand of the queer-looking peddler.
"Lor', that's funny."
"You don't live in town?"
"I reckon not. So you don't remember me, August?"
"I can't say that I do."
"You've certainly heard your ma speak of Hiram Shanks, the man that
married her youngest sister, Lucretia?"
Again the young man shook his head.
"Well, it beats all," grunted Mr. Shanks. "I thought you must have heard
of me. Since my wife died I've kinder gone to rack and ruin. I ain't the
man I used to be in my young days, oh no!" with a long-drawn sigh.
"I should judge not."
"Call your ma, August. I know she'll recognize the man that married her
sister Lucretia."
"Mother isn't at home."
"Bad again. When will she return?"
"Not soon."
"Visitin'?"
"Yes."
"Would you mind lettin' me stop over night with ye? Hotel bills is
powerful large, and for the sake of relationship, I think you will let me
bunk one night. My team won't eat much, and as for me, a crust of bread
and cup o' tea will set the inner man in good shape.
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