Jack understood that patient , wistful look , and , without a word , went back to his seat , staring at the fire so soberly , that his mother presently asked : `` What are you thinking of so busily , with that pucker in your forehead ? '' `` I 've about made up my mind that I wo n't go to school just yet , '' answered Jack , slowly lifting his head , for it cost him something to give up the long-expected pleasure . `` Why not ? '' and Mrs. Minot looked much surprised , till Jack pointed to the screen , and , making a sad face to express Jill 's anguish , answered in a cheerful tone , `` Well , I 'm not sure that it is best . Doctor did not want me to go , but said I might because I teased . I shall be sure to come to grief , and then every one will say , ' I told you so , ' and that is so provoking . I 'd rather keep still a week longer . Had n't I better ? '' His mother smiled and nodded as she said , sewing away at much-abused old Caesar , as if she loved him , `` Do as you think best , dear . I always want you at home , but I do n't wonder you are rather tired of it after this long confinement . '' `` I say , Jill , should I be in your way if I did n't go to school till the first of February ? '' called Jack , laughing to himself at the absurdity of the question . `` Not much ! '' answered a glad voice from behind the screen , and he knew the sorrowful eyes were shining with delight , though he could not see them . `` Well , I guess I may as well , and get quite firm on my legs before I start . Another week or so will bring me up if I study hard , so I shall not lose my time . I 'll tackle my Latin as soon as it 's ready , mother . '' Jack got a hearty kiss with the neatly covered book , and Mamma loved him for the little sacrifice more than if he had won a prize at school . He did get a reward , for , in five minutes from the time he decided , Jill was singing like a bobolink , and such a medley of merry music came from behind the screen , that it was a regular morning concert . She did not know then that he stayed for her sake , but she found it out soon after , and when the time came did as much for him , as we shall see .
It proved a wise decision , for the last part of January was so stormy XXXXX could not have gone half the time .
Caesar Doctor Jack Jill Mamma Minot bobolink fire minutes pucker