124 Hans Brinker

mynheer, that would be too much joy! I have never tried
big work ; but I can do it, I know I can.”

“ Well, tell my father you are the Hans Brinker of whom I
spoke. He will be glad to serve you.”

Hans stared in honest surprise.

«© Thank you, mynheer !”

“ Now, captain,” shouted Carl, anxious to appear as good-
humored as possible, by way of atonement, ‘here we are in
the midst of Haarlem, and no word from you yet. We await
your orders; and we’re as hungry as wolves.”

Peter made a cheerful answer, and turned hurriedly to
Hans.

“Come, get something to eat, and I will detain you no
longer.”

What a quick, wistful look Hans threw upon him! Peter
wondered that he had not noticed before that the poor boy was
hungry.

“© Ah, mynheer ! even now the mother may need me: the
father may be worse. I must not wait. May God care for
you!” And, nodding hastily, Hans turned his face home-
ward, and was gone.

“© Come, boys,” sighed Peter, “ now for our tiffin /”