`` It 's a tramp , let 's run away , '' whispered Betty , after a hasty look . `` I ai n't afraid , '' and Bab was about to assume her boldest look when a sneeze spoilt it , and made her clutch the gate to hold on . At that unexpected sound the man looked up , showing a thin , dark face , with a pair of sharp , black eyes , which surveyed the little girls so steadily that Betty quaked , and Bab began to wish she had at least jumped down inside the gate . `` How are you ? '' said the man with a goodnatured nod and smile , as if to re-assure the round-eyed children staring at him . `` Pretty well , thank you , sir , '' responded Bab , politely nodding back at him . `` Folks at home ? '' asked the man , looking over their heads toward the house . `` Only Ma ; all the rest have gone to be married . '' `` That sounds lively . At the other place all the folks had gone to a funeral , '' and the man laughed as he glanced at the big house on the hill . `` Why , do you know the Squire ? '' exclaimed Bab , much surprised and re-assured . `` Come on purpose to see him . Just strolling round till he gets back , '' with an impatient sort of sigh . `` Betty thought you was a tramp , but I was n't afraid . I like tramps ever since Ben came , '' explained Bab , with her usual candor . `` Who 's Ben ! '' and the man came nearer so quickly that Betty nearly fell backward . `` Do n't you be scared , Sissy .
I XXXXX little girls , so you set easy and tell me about Ben , '' he added , in a persuasive tone , as he leaned on the gate so near that both could see what a friendly face he had in spite of its eager , anxious look .
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