"Let Peletiah carry that for you," said Mrs. Henderson.
"He's so slow," said Rachel, but she stopped obediently.
"Rachel, there is one thing"--and the parson's wife came over and put her
hand on the thin little shoulder--"we all help each other in this house,
and we never talk against one."
"Oh," said Rachel.
Peletiah by this time had advanced on the teakettle, and, as soon as he
could, he bore it off and solemnly poured a goodly supply of boiling-hot
water into the waiting dishpan.
"Now you boys are to wipe the dishes for Rachel," said their mother, with
an approving glance at the group.
"I'd rather," began Rachel, wrinkling up her face.
"So remember; and when you are through, and the kitchen is set up neatly,
you may all play out of doors this afternoon, for lessons don't begin for
you until to-morrow, Rachel. And now be good children."
"I don't like lessons," said Peletiah, when they were left alone.
"Don't you?" exclaimed Rachel, in astonishment, and resting her soapy hands
on the edge of the dishpan.
"No, I don't," declared Peletiah, with great deliberation, "like them at
all."
"Well, I shall, I know." Rachel twitched off her hands and slapped the mop
down smartly among the cups in the hot water.
"Ow! you splashed me all over," exclaimed Ezekiel. "See there, now,
Rachel." He stepped hack and held up his arm.
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