I am a collector of antique books. I especially like children’s books. The dated diaglog is often hard to understand. I have rewritten this sweet story published in 1901. Enjoy!
DICKEY AND LADY WHITE
Chapter 1
GRANDFATHER’S LETTER
“Here is something for you, Dickey,” said Mrs. McRay, as she handed her son a letter.
“A letter for me, Mother? Why, whom can it be from? I’ll bet it’s from Grandfather.” He is danced around on one foot, while he took his penknife from his pocket, and cut the envelope. “Yes Mother, I ‘m right!”
My dear Grandson: Will Mother and Father let you come to spend your vacation with us this summer? We have plenty of green grass here and I think the cows and sheep all want to see you. Answer at once. Your loving, Grandfather McRay
Dickey held his breath. “Oh, Mother,” he exclaimed, giving her a tight hug, “to see fields of green grass, to see cows and sheep, and feed the chickens!” Mother, you will say ‘yes’, won’t you?”
“Yes, Dickey, the arrangements have all been made. You are to start within a few days, and spend six long weeks in the country. But what will Father and Mother do without you dear?” as she put her arm around him.
“I had not thought of that, Mother mine,” replied the boy, “but I am sure God will take care of you. Are you not really glad that I am going to have such a good time?”
“Yes, of course, Dickey, and so we must agree not to feel sorry for the time we are apart,” Mother replied.
Grandfather McRay lived in a big white house with green shutters, which stood some distance from the road. Everywhere around the place were to be found beautiful flowers growing and particularly blooming roses.
There were some big red beauties, called “Jack Roses,” and some lovely “Tea Roses,” and here and there big low bushes of white ones, known as “Bridal Roses.” But prettiest of all was a pink climbing rose vine, which partly covered the east side of the house.
One the big lawn were several maple trees. Some of the branches hung low, and it was here that Grandfather McRay had arranged two comfortable hammocks.
Backs of the house were three barns; one for the cows, one for the sheep, and one for the horses and carriages.
Grandfather McRay was very busy the day before Dickey was to come, for he wanted everything to be perfect. In the barn was a splendid gift for Dickey; one he knew would delight any boy. It was a large White Mountain goat, which Grandfather McRay had bought for his grandchild.
She was really a handsome creature. She was about three feet high, had two long tapering horns and a tiny short tail. But something had happened to her that made Grandfather feel very bad.
Just the other day, while the goat was out in the barnyard, somehow, in running she had sprained her ankle.
Grandfather had called in the veterinary doctor, but he could not do much for the animal. He said the sprain was a bad one and that it would be weeks before she would be able to put her foot to the floor.
“It does seem a shame. I wanted the boy to enjoy himself playing with the goat. Perhaps, there is something yet that will cure the sprain,” he remarked with a sigh, as he closed the barn door.
Grandfather was a good man with a very kind heart, and he dearly loved little children. Dickey was eight years old, and his grandfather had never laid eyes on him. Poor Dickey had always been too sick to leave home. However, Dickey’s mother had recently written Grandfather that her son was well and was attending school regularly.
Grandfather was overjoyed and was anxious to see the boy. Dickey’s mother said that prayer had healed him, but Grandfather wanted to see for himself just how strong the boy was after such a long a serious illness.
Chapter II
DICKEY’S ARRIVAL
Dickey left his home about nine o’clock in the morning, and expected to reach his grandfather’s early in the afternoon.
His father had put him aboard the train, found him a seat on the sunny side, and explained that he had arranged with the conductor to look after him. “There won’t be trouble, Dickey,” he said, “the train does not stop until it reaches Monticello, where you get off, and Grandfather will be there to meet you.”
“Oh, I’ll be all right,” replied Dickey, as he kissed his father goodbye. The time did not seem long, for there was so much to see, and the country grew prettier as the train sped along. At last the conductor came to tell him that in a few minutes they would stop at Monticello.
Dickey cheerfully began to picture his grandfather at the station. He knew just the face to expect from the picture his mother had shown him. He felt certain that he would recognize the tall gentleman with the gray whiskers, and as mother had recently sent his photo to Grandfather, there could be no possible confusion.
When the train stopped the conductor kindly helped the little passenger to the platform. At once Dickey recognized his grandfather. “Oh, Grandfather, I was sure I would know you,” and he gave him a big hug.
Grandfather of course recognized Dickey from the picture. “I was sure I would know you, too,” he said tenderly. “You have your father’s eyes, only brighter I should say,” he said, as he looked into the boy’s blue eyes.
When they reached the house Grandmother had more hugs and kisses for Dickey, telling him she was so delighted to have him visit. He was very happy and soon felt quite at home. After he washed up, he was served a very hearty lunch, which was good, for he was hungry after his long trip. Then Grandfather took him to see the animals in the barn.
Dickey was thrilled to see all the cows, chickens, horses and the sheep. He danced for joy. However, he lost his step and stumbled over Fluffy, who had followed them from the house.
Fluffy was a big, soft Angora cat who disliked to be held, and generally seemed more at eased in her pretty basket by the fire. Before Grandfather could stop Dickey he had stooped down and lifted Fluffy into his arms. “Poor kitty,” he said, petting her, “I did not mean to hurt you.”
“Dickey, be careful,” cried Grandfather, “Fluffy is not used to being held and she may scratch you.”
“No never,” said Dickey. “Mother says creatures know when you love them and they will not harm you.”
“Well, perhaps that is mostly true, Dickey, but don’t count on that rule to apply to cats,” Grandfather said.
“Well, perhaps I will have to show you, Grandfather,” came Dickey’s reply, as he stoked the soft ball of fur in his arms. Fluffy made no attempt to get down as he carried her back to the house.
“Well, well, you might have proved me wrong,” laughed Grandfather. “That is the first time old Fluffy ever let anyone hold her.”
Dickey thoroughly enjoyed his supper that night. The fresh vegetables, out of Grandmother’s garden, were much more delicious than those from the city. He had second helpings of the white potatoes, the crisp cucumbers, lettuce and the sweet tender corn.
Grandmother though she had never seen a boy eat so much. Finally she said, smilingly, “Now Dickey, you really must have had enough. Don’t eat too much; you may not be able to sleep tonight.”
Dickey laughed. “Never fear, Grandmother, I know I’ll sleep like a log tonight.”
After supper they all went out on the porch to relaxed. Grandmother had her own special wicker chair and so did Grandfather. There was a brand-new chair for Dickey, as Grandfather had decided he should have his own chair, too.
“How thoughtful they are,” thought Dickey as he took possession of the pretty wicker rocker. After a while, he said, “Grandfather, may I climb in your lab?”
Without waiting for a reply, Dickey left his chair and settled himself on his grandfather’s knees. Throwing an arm around his neck, he dropped his head on his big shoulders.
Dickey felt Grandfather’s arms holding him very tightly. They sat for a long time in silence, yet they seemed to say much without the need of words. At length Grandmother spoke. “Don’t you want to got to bed, Dickey?” I’m sure you must be tired after your long, busy, day.”
“I’m happy here,” Dickey said, looking up at his grandfather. “God is always good, isn’t he?”
Grandfather could not reply at once, as he was surprised that his young grandson seemly had so much knowledge of God. After a moment’s reflection he shook his head and smiled.
With this response Dickey kissed Grandfather goodnight, and obediently followed his grandmother upstairs. “Well, well, such wisdom in the voice of a child,” thought Grandfather.
The first thing Dickey did, when he came into his pretty bedroom, was to bury his nose in a big bunch of roses that sat upon the dresser. “Oh Grandmother, how sweet they smell! I wish I could give one of these to Mother right now!” Dickey said, with tears in his eyes.
Grandmother kissed him on the cheek and turned the covers back on the bed. “I will leave you to undress. I’ll be back in a few minutes to turn out the light.” When she returned he was already in bed. She looked a the little boy all tucked in bed and said, “I hope you did not forget to say your prayers Dickey.”
“No, ma’am,” he assured her. ”
Grandmother smiled and put out the light. Before she could say good night, Dickey called out to her, “Grandmother, would like to hear the prayer my mother taught me?”
“Yes, dear,” she replied.
Dickey began: “Now I lay me down to sleep, I know I am a child of God. I shall never fear, for he is always near. He lives in me and I in Him. God gives me health, courage and strength. I pray the Lord my soul to keep. That is a very beautiful prayer,” remarked Grandmother smiling.”
“Dickey i shall crack the window a bit so you can take in the fresh air?” Grandmother asked.
“Yes, please,” Dickey said.
Chapter III
LADY WHITE
Dickey was awakened early the next morning by the mewing of a cat.
At first he could not think where he was; his sleep had been so sound. But soon he realized that he was at his grandparent’s house. At once he knew the mewing was Fluffy’s. Sure enough, there on the windowsill sat the pretty cat. Her fur was a beautiful deep yellow, and as the bright sun shone upon it, she made a beautiful picture indeed.
Dickey sprang out of bed and lifted the window wide so Fluffy could enter. The cat was in a playful mood; she jumped upon the bed and sprang after anything that moved.
They were having such a fine time together that Dickey found it difficult to dress. He was just putting on his shoe when she spied his shoestring and made a dash for it.
Looking down at Fluffy’s pretty face Dickey could not resist taking her up in his arms. She purred and snuggled up to him. “Sweet kitten, you are just a bundle of love,” Dickey said, stroking her fur.
Grandmother’s voice was calling him for breakfast and he carried Fluffy in his arms downstairs. When Grandfather saw Fluffy in Dickey’s arms he said, “That old cat has sure changed her ways, since you arrived.”
In the kitchen they found Grandmother. “Good morning,” she said, placing a kiss on top of Dickey’s head.
They sat down at the table and Grandfather asked the blessing. Dickey enjoyed a big glass of fresh, warm milk and a bowl of rich red strawberries. He was so busy eating that he did say a word for the longest time. After emptying his bowl, he spoke, “Grandmother, these strawberries are the best I have even eaten. Did you pick them from the garden?” he asked.
“Yes dear and tomorrow I will pick you some more,” she said.
“May I help you?” Dickey asked.
“Yes, you may, but you must get up very early,” Grandmother said, as if teasing Dickey.
“Oh, I don’t mind at all Grandmother. I have been awake for hours, but stayed upstairs until you called me. I didn’t want to be in the way.”
“Good gracious, you are a thoughtful child,” Grandmother said, looking over at her husband. “Never you mind about that, you are never underfoot at our house.”
When they had finished breakfast Grandfather told Dickey he had something to show him in the barn. “But…” he said with a troubled look on his face. “Something has happened to the poor beast. I had hoped you would have a good time playing with her, while you were here.”
“Has it passed on Grandfather?” asked Dickey, looking serious.
“Passed on?” asked Grandfather. Then realizing what he meant, he said, “NO…she is still very much alive.”
“Oh, then it will be all right?” said Dickey, with relief.
Grandfather pause a moment wondering if he should say more, then he grabbed his hat of the hook. “Come on let’s go boy, at least you can have a look at her.”
On their way to the barn grandfather walked on the path, but Dickey walked on the soft green grass. It felt so good underneath his bare feet and there was no policeman to say, “Keep off the Grass!”
When Grandfather raised the barn door latch, and swung open the door, Dickey’s heart begun raced. There stood a beautiful white goat.
“Grandfather!” he exclaimed in delight, did you really but her for me?”
“Yes, he replied, but, “Lady White, was running the other day, fell and sprained her ankle.”
As they approached her, the goat made a motion as if she wanted to meet them, but when she touched her foot to the ground, she stood still.
Dickey noticed this and ran swiftly toward her. “Be a little careful, my boy, since you’re a stranger,” warned Grandfather.
The boy stroked and petted the pretty face and neck of the goat, and then looked down at the injured ankle.
Grandfather explained that Veterinary Doctor had said it would be weeks before the goat could walk much less pull a cart.
Hearing this, Dick looked up at his grandfather and cried, “Have you asked God to heal her?” he asked.
“No,” Grandfather replied, somewhat astonished that the boy would ask. “I would not figure the good Lord would pay any attention to a goat.”
“But, God healed me, and He can heal Lady White, too, ” Dickey protested.
“Listen son, the Vet gave me some medicine to apply, maybe…” explained Grandfather.
“I don’t mean medicine,” cried Dickey. Grandfather will you let me pray for Lady White.”
Looking into the earnest eyes of the child his grandfather said, “Of course, you may pray for Lady White.”
When they returned to the house Grandfather told Dickey that he needed to go to town. “Amuse yourself as you like, my boy. I shall not be gone long.”
“Oh don’t worry grandfather, there are so many things for me to do, that I don’t where to begin,” Dickey said.
Grandfather when up stairs to dress for town. There he saw his wife and explained what happened in the barn. “That little Dickey is a strange little bird, ” he said, as he sat down on the bed. “He seems to almost be able to see into the window of heaven.”
Grandmother took out a clean shirt for her husband and sat down beside him on the bed. “You remember his mother said that Dickey was healed through prayer. His eyes were so poor he could barely see, and now he does not even wear glasses. There are just some things we can’t understand and we must just accept on faith.”
Grandfather nodded his head. “Well, if he prays a cure on that old Goat, I want to know what he said to God.”
Grandmother stood up and straightened out her apron. “I have a feeling this is grandson of ours is a very special little boy. I shall hope to see what he becomes.”
After Grandfather had gone Dickey went upstairs. Even though his eyes had been poor most of his life, he was an exceptional reader and scholar for his age. He composed a letter to his Mother telling her that he was happy and all about Lady White.
Dickey had noted that the mailbox was at the end of the drive, so he sealed his enveloped and went to deliver it. Afterwards he settled himself in one of the hammocks where he could look toward the barn. There he prayed for Lady White. When he felt sure God had heard his prayers he opened his eyes.
From where he was sitting he saw a flock of something moving across the pasture and he decided he would walk over and find out what it was.
There he saw a wonderful sight—a large flock of turkeys. They had come from a neighboring farm into the pasture looking for grasshoppers, for turkeys are very fond of them.
The only turkeys Dickey had ever seen were hanging in market windows around Thanksgiving. One turkey seemed more beautiful than all the rest, acting very proud and at once coming close to Dickey.
Dickey did not know it, but this one was the gobbler. Any red article will prove an attraction to the bird, often provoking him to anger. It just so happened that Dickey had put on his red tie that morning. He had no idea that it was going to aggravate a turkey.
The gobbler’s head began to grown very angry looking. It became almost red as Dickey’s tie. He was making a peculiar noise, and came close enough for Dickey to reach out and pet him.
Immediately the gobbler flew at him, hitting him fiercely with his wings and knocking him over.
The boy was never more surprised in his life, and he forgot all about declaring the truth. Just as he was getting upon his feet again, the gobbler struck him from behind. Dickey ran toward a nearby fence, climbing upon it, before the angry bird could strike him again.
Dickey was safe so long as he stayed upon the fence, but he could not get down, because Mr. Gobbler stood by watching him very closely. Every time Dickey moved, the big bird was ready for him.
“Oh,” cried the boy, “this is the worst kind of mishap I have ever saw.” Then he did his best to clear his mind of his own fears and remember that God was always with him.
The gobbler continued to eat grasshoppers close by, but if Dickey made the slightest move, he began to spread his tail, and make that strange noise.
It was growing late and Dickey knew his grandfather would soon be looking for him. Sure enough, soon he heard “Dickey, Dickey!”
The boy stood up and waved his hat to his grandfather, “Here I am, Grandfather!”
Grandfather soon saw the trouble was that the gobbler had Dickey treed. He begun to laugh and chased the bird away with his cane.
“Have you been up there long,” Grandfather asked as he helped Dickey down.
“Yes,” replied Dickey, “but I knew if I prayed God would save me.”
“So you mean I was the answer to your prayer?” Grandfather asked.
“Oh, yes,” Dickey said smiling, jumping around as if he suddenly had been let out of prison.
When Dickey learned that his red tie had caused the bird to anger, he decided that he would wear it no more. Well, at least as long as he was visiting with Grandfather.
Chapter IV
LADY WHITE’S HEALING
Dickey had been at the farm two days, and during this time he had faithfully treated his goat.
The morning of the third day, when Grandfather went to the barn to feed the animals, he first looked at Lady White to see how she was getting on, for although Dickey did not know it, his grandfather had been watching her very closely.
For two mornings he had found her just the same, there seemed no improvement in her condition, for poor Lady White was still standing on three legs.
But this morning—Grandfather could not believe his eyes. There was pretty Lady White standing not on all four legs.
Grandfather was so surprised that he dropped the hayfork he was holding, exclaiming, “I can’t believe it! Only yesterday she could touch that foot to the ground, and today she is walking around as if nothing had every happened.
How could this be the doctor said it would take at least six weeks? Gently Grandfather petted the pretty goat and carefully touched the leg that had been injured. It was no longer sore or swollen.
Never before had Grandfather seen anything like this. He remembered when his horse had a sprain; he was lame for a very long time. Surely the goat’s healing was nothing short of a miracle! This must be the result of the child’s prayers, for the goat had no medicine for over two days.
Grandfather ran as best as he could to look for the boy. He found him in the yard and shouted out, “Dickey, your goat is walking!”
As Grandfather approached he was so excited he was nearly out of breath. “Why, Grandfather, I expected it. Grandfather, nothing has changed since the days of old. Jesus healed the sick and he healed me, too. He told us that we were to do the works that he did.”
“I reckon I am like most folks, sometimes we seem to forget these things. Dickey you are right, God has not changed. I just suppose people have changed.”
“Let’s go at once to see Lady White?” Dickey asked.
“Hold on, first things, first. Your Grandmother is waiting on us for breakfast,” Grandfather said smiling. The truth—he was just as eager to go to the barn as Dickey. He did not even open his newspaper, or take his second cup of coffee.
As soon as their plates were empty they headed for the barn. The door stood open, and the pretty goat was ready to meet her visitors. Dick threw his arms around her neck. “Oh, I am so glad to see you walk!”
Shortly Grandfather got a little halter from the closet, fastened it to the goat’s head. “I’ve something else to show you, Dick. I did not do it before, because I did not think Lady White could be driven while you were here,” Grandfather said.
Dickey was very curious. “What is it, Grandfather?” Do show me! I can hardly wait!”
Without a word, Grandfather went to the one corner of the barn and pulled off the cover from something big standing there.
Dickey’s eyes opened wide as he saw a pretty two-wheeled goat cart, painted shiny black.
Out of this pretty cart Grandfather took a brand new set of harness, which was also black to match the cart. It had the prettiest little bridle, and a tiny bit which just fitted Lady White’s mouth.
Dickey danced for joy as he watched Grandfather harness the goat. “Watch Closely, Dickey,” Grandfather said. “I shall expect you to harness and unharness her for yourself, next time. ”
This delighted Dickey. “I’m sure it won’t take me long to learn. It looks very easy; besides I shall love to do it myself.”
Grandfather laughed good-naturedly. “We will see what you can do tomorrow morning, Dickey.”
The harness being fasted, Grandfather hitched Lady White to the cart. Oh, what a pretty picture it was! The snowy-white goat, the fine black cart and harness. To Dickey it was like a fairy tale, so much prettier than any of the goats and carts her had seen in Central Park.
As if on cue, Fluffy came into the barn to take a look around. Dickey rushed over and lifted up cat, “Miss Fluffy, you must get acquainted with Lady White,” he said, hold the cat up to the goat’s face.
Both pets looked hard at each other for a moment, then Fluffy made a naughty decision. Reaching out her paw, she struck Lady White a sharp blow on the top of her nose, and then scrambling out of Dickey’s arms, she ran quickly into a corner.
Of course Lady White took offense at this and started in pursuit, but Grandfather stopped her. “You must give them time to know each other, Dickey. Cats never like strange animals.”
“I’m sorry Grandfather,” Dickey said, with tears in his eyes. “I did not know Fluffy would scratch Lady White. I won’t do it again.” As Dickey spoke, he observed how peculiarly the goat’s eyes flowed the cat- lurking in the corner of the barn.
“Now Dickey take a seat in the wagon and grasp the reins firmly,” Grandfather said, helping climb up. “Let me show you how to guide Lady White.”
Slowly they left the building with Grandfather cautiously walking behind the cart. He did no want Dickey inexperience in driving to cause the cart to end up in ditch.
Soon Grandfather was certain that Dickey had the hang of driving, and he sat down and watched him drive the cart all around the path and up to the house to show Grandmother.
Grandmother came out of the kitchen door with Fluffy following. When Lady White spied the cat, she forgot she has hitched to cart, lowered her horns to make a made dash toward the cat.
Fluffy was too clever and quickly climbed into a nearby maple tree. There she seated herself and looked down at the scene though squinted eyes.
Dickey had been successful in holding onto the reins and keeping Lady White from upsetting the cart. He got out of the cart and approached the goat, “Naughty Lady White,” he scolded. “This will never do! You must not hurt kitty with your pretty horns.”
Grandfather helped Dickey to get the cart back on the lane, and when they reached the barn, he instructed him how to unhitch the harness and cart.
“Now, take your goat upon the lawn and let her eat some grass, Dickey.”
Dickey allowed Lady White to eat as much as you desired, then the goat selected nice shady spot under the tree and lay down to rest. Dickey stretched out beside her and before long they were both asleep.
Chapter V
GRANDFATHER’S SURPRISE
Dickey came down stairs early the next morning, as he wished to help grandma in the garden.
The house seemed unusually quiet and the boy felt that something must be wrong. Noticing Grandmother’s serious looks, he at once asked the reason.
“Grandfather has one his sick headaches and the least little noise disturbs him,” she explained. “I will you will be quiet as you can today.”
There was no strawberry picking that morning, and the breakfast was silent one.
Grandmother felt sad that Grandfather was sick, and Dickey was sad for his Grandfather and that today he would not be able to drive Lady White.
Dickey wanted to go see his Grandfather, but feared his Grandmother would not allow it. He figured it was best to just watch for a moment could sneak in.
When Grandmother when into the kitchen with the breakfast dishes Dickey crept upstairs. When he reached Grandfathers room he knocked softly. “Come in,” came Grandfathers voice.
Dickey approached the bed and gave his Grandfather a kiss. “I am sorry you are sick Grandfather.”
“I’m used to this old headaches, Dickey,” Grandfather whispered. “It will pass, but I am more sorry that you will not be able to drive Lady White today.”
“Don’t worry Grandfather, I will pray for you and your headaches will go away,” Dickey said, taking his Grandfather’s hand.
“Boy, I have suffered for over 20 years with these headache and if you think you can heal me, like you did Lady White, go ahead, but I can’t speak another word my head his splitting.”
Dickey tiptoed to a big armchair and took a seat. He covered his face with hands and sat still for some time, before he slipped from the room.
Grandfather soon fell asleep. An hour later he awoke with a start, and could not remember why he was in bed. As his head cleared he remembered his sick headache and his young grandson’s praying for him.
He was sitting up in bed, when his wife came in to check on him. “Lie down and be quite, you will aggravate his headache,” she said, concerned.
“You are wrong woman,” Grandpa said smiling. “The headache has left me.”
“Oh my,” Grandmother sighed, thinking that he was out of mind with pain. “Please you must lie down, you know these headaches always last three days.”
“I have NO headache,” Grandfather said firmly. “Dickey came in and sat right there in that chair and prayed for me. He said he asked God to heal me and I reckon God did, for I feel completed rested,” Grandfather said, reaching for his overalls in the chair beside him.
Grandmother shook her head in disbelieve and Grandfather took her hand to calm her. “You know the Bible tells us that God hears little children’s prayers,” he said softly.
“Yes, ” she said, softly, you are right. “We are to become as a little child, to enter the kingdom of heaven.” She smiled and left Grandfather to get dressed.
Chapter VI
GOD’S PROTECTION
When Dickey left his grandfather’s room, he decided to take a walk. It was one of those rare and perfect days in July. The air was warm, yet balmy and delicately perfumed with the aroma of the honeysuckle, which grew about the porch. He spied a robin and the meadowlark called loudly across the field. Dickey listened in delight.
All these sights and sounds were strangely new to the boy. A green cool looking grove of trees stood across the meadow and Dickey decided to explore there. With a bound he was off, hatless, and enjoying the fullness of the fresh air and sunshine.
Now and then he paused to nip a daisy’s head or to pluck a wild strawberry, but when he reached a haystack plunging downward upon and rolled around like a king in a huge bed.
Feeling thirsty, he started on again toward the grove of trees, thinking there might be stream near by. He was not mistaken for soon he reached clear bubbling brook. The sound of it was almost like music to his ears.
A streak of sunlight found its way through the overhanging limbs and glistened on the water. He bent down to take a drink, but his attention was attracted to the hanging full huckleberry bushes along the banks.
Dickey like this little secret spot and began to throw pebbles into the dancing water. Little did he know that his very spot was called Rattlesnake den.
Dickey knew nothing of snakes and when he heard a queer sound like a baby rattle he was only amused. He continued he play until he heard the sound even closer and discovered there in the grass next to him was a very large rattlesnake ready to strike at him.
Dickey too frightened to move. Then he closed his eyes as not to be able to see the snake and prayed. Then after some time the fear left him, he opened his eyes, and cautiously stepped up on large rock near by.
The snake was till there but it had stopped rattling. The snakes uncoiled and stretched out in the sun. Soon more rattlesnakes joined him to sun themselves, too. Dickey sat very still upon the rock and admired them. It was getting late in the afternoon, when Dickey heard his Grandfather’s voice.
“Over here,” Dickey cried out, just as Grandfather pushed through the huckleberry bushes by the brook. Right away he saw three large rattlesnakes stretched out at the feet of Dickey.
When the snakes saw the huge figure of Grandfather they quickly disappeared into their den. Quickly he stepped across the brook and with a sweep gathered Davie up in his arms and carried him to the other side. He did not stop until they were out of the grove of trees.
“Are you bitten?” Grandfather asked; as he sat the boy down to examine him.
“No, not at all. At first I was frighten, then I just thought of how God loves all creatures and how beautiful the snakes were.”
Grandfather grasped Dickey’ s hand tightly, “Come alone now, and promise me you will never come back here.”
Dickey nodded his head. “Grandfather, see how God has worked things out. I prayed for your headaches to go away and you were able to come rescue me.”
“Well you certainly are good at getting your prayers answered Dickey. My headache is gone; is a blessing that those big rattlesnakes did not bite you. You are close to God’s heart.”
“Well, Mommy says the reason some people’s prayers are not heard, is because they do all the talking. Sometime you have to do the listening. Grandfather, did you know that God is nearer than our hands and feet,” Dickey said, holding out his dirty little hands in front of him.
Dickey said nothing more on the subject and started for home.
“Oh lets hurry home, I am very hungry Dickey,” said playful, and started to run. “Come on Grandfather. Grandmother is waiting.”
Grandfather, ran almost as fast as Dickey. Dickey eyes smiled with satisfaction.
Chapter VII
NAUGHTY LADY WHITE
Dickey could not entirely harness the goat alone; in fact, it was three days before he accomplished that task.
After the fourth day he was allowed to take his goat out of the stable whenever he wished, and he often spent long afternoons with her driving up and down the roads.
Dickey soon discovered that goats, like human beings, liked to have things there own way.
One day, when Dickey had been out with Lady White but a short while, he was just about to pass the barn, when she stopped wand refused to more. Dickey coaxed and pleaded. Then he stepped out of the wagon and petted her, but it did no good. At last the naughty goat lay down in the road and would get up.
Tears came close to her young master’s eyes. “What shall I do? Lady White, you must get up!” But Lady White paid no attention to his pleadings.
Presently Grandfather who had been watching the proceedings from the porch, came to offer help; in vain he tried to get the goat to her feet, but Lady White preferred to stay just were she was.
Grandfather lost his patience and gave the goat a sharp crack with his cane. This surprised Lady White and she jumped to her feet. However she refused to walk, until he gave a second crack.
Dick was inclined to feel angry with Grandfather was striking his goat, but he kept silent. He supposed she must be punished if she was not obedient, but he did not like it. Lady White was as good as she good be the rest of the afternoon.
The next morning at the breakfast table Grandfather related a to Dickey an experience that made him laugh until his sides ached.
“After I went into the barn this morning, I took Lady White into the yard as usual to feed her, and then returned to milk the cow. Later when I passed the goat I was carrying a pail of milk. I was just going out of the gate when Lady White took a run, and planted her fine tapering horns right on the seat of my trousers. The blow nearly knocked me off my feet.”
Dickey laughed so heartily that it seemed as though he could not stop.
“Of course,” continued Grandfather, “the unexpected blow spilled the milk. I stooped to pick up the empty pail, and that awful revengeful goat took a run and hit me again.”
Dickey felt sorry for his grandfather, but he fairly doubled up with laughter. Grandmother was laughing, too.
“This time I fell,” declared Grandfather, “but I hurriedly got up, too my cane, and started after Lady White. Do you think I could catch that goat? No! We went around and around the barnyard, until I was out of breath. Finally, I gave up the race.”
“Dickey, you should have seen him,” said Grandmother. “He was mess, spattered with milk and mud. ”
“I wish I could have seen that Grandfather,” Dickey said.
Grandfather laughed now, thinking it would have certainly been entertaining for the boy to see such a sight.
Dickey soon found out for himself that Lady White could not always be trusted. She was doing some new “stunt” each day.
She never tried to hurt Dickey and it was certain she was very fond of her little master, but did not always obey. Dickey overlooked her tricks, as just the way a good likes to have fun.
As the beautiful days passed alone Dickey sighed at the thought of vacation coming to an end.
Dickey thought along this line as he walked from the house to the barn. Opening the door, he went directly to his Lady White and put his arms around her neck. “Perhaps Grandfather will keep you for me, Lady. ”
Chapter VIII
FLUFFY AND LADY WHITE
As the beautiful days passed along Dickey sighed at the thought of vacations coming to an end.
“But, then, I have had such a lovely time, and I know I should not fee sad, for I much to tell Father and Mother.
Dickey thought along this line as he walked from the house to the barn. Opening the door, he went directly to Lady White and put his little arms around her neck. “Perhaps Grandfather will keep you for me, Lady. He told me yesterday that he would miss me after I am gone. He said that I could spend every vacation here, if I cared to come. Of course I will do just that!”
The goat seemed to listen attentively, as though she understood.
It was now no trouble for Dickey to harness and unharness Lady White. After attaching the shiny cart, of which Dickey took the greatest care, they started out of the barn.
Dickey drove to a neighbor’s house, then back again. H was heading in another direction when Lady White saw Fluffy, and puled hard to run after her.
Of course Dickey thought it would be fun, to have Lady White run so fast. But he knew it was not right for her to try to injure the cat, and he said firmly, “No, Lady, you must not hurt Fluffy.”
As Dickey spoke the kitten jumped upon the stonewall near her; evidently she thought this a safe place, for she eyed the goat without fear.
Like a flash Lady White rushed after her, she seemed determined to ram the daring yellow cat. Dickey did all he could to prevent the goat from climbing the stonewall, but to no advantage. Lady White was stronger and climbed up on the wall, leaving the wagon with Dickey hanging on the side of the wall.
Dickey was able to get out the cart and hard as he try he could not lift the wagon to the other side of the wall. Lady White was nearly choking because of the tightly drawn harness.
Dickey ran as fast as could to the house for Grandmother. Seeing her in the kitchen, he shouted, “Come quick Grandmother, come quick, Lady White is nearly hanging!”
Grandmother was so startled that she dropped the cake she was taken out of the oven. “Hanging? However has this happened?”
Hurriedly she followed Dickey to wall, and found the goat in a bad condition. Grandmother pulled and pulled, but could not unbuckle the strap. Then she tried to lift the wagon, but it would not move.
“Let us pull together!” exclaimed Dickey. But their combined efforts were in vain. Suddenly a familiar voice called, “Hello, there; what are you doing?”
“Oh, joy! It was Grandfather. “Come quick, quick, Grandfather,” cried Dickey. “Lady White is choking.”
“It looks as if I am just in time,” he said, as he glanced at the gasping animal. Quickly he lifted the cart to the top of the wall, gave it a push and goat and cart came down to the ground.
Lady White was plainly exhausted. It was some time before she wanted to get up after the harness was loosened.
This experience taught her a lesson and she never chased Fluffy again.
Dickey made the most of his last few days. When he was not driving Lady White, they were together on the lawn, and the goat seemed to enjoy every minute with his boy. Fluffy often came, too, but Lady appeared not to see her.
Grandfather watched his grandson from the porch, and thought of how he was going to miss him when he was gone. He was such a good little boy, who always saw the good in everything. The boy had also taught the old man a thing or two. Through this little boy’s innocent understanding of God, Grandfather had rediscovered the goodness of God and experienced the power of prayer.
Chapter IX
A LETTER FROM HOME
Dickey’s glorious time came to an end sooner than was expected.
His mother sent a letter telling him that school would open a week earlier than she had thought, and that he must be home Saturday.
This certainly was bad news, but the brave little boy said, “Well, I suppose it can’t be helped! I’ve have had the greatest vacation.” Going over to his Grandfather, he added shyly, “Do you want me back next summer Grandfather?”
“Yes, by all means, Dickey, plan to come, and if Mother and Father care to spend a few weeks on the farm we will be happy to have them, also,” he said with tears in his eyes.
Dickey tried hard not to cry. He had grown very fond of his grandparents. When Grandmother gave him a big hug, the lump in his throat kept him from speaking.
The last day Dickey spent almost entirely with Lady White. He really could not bear to leave her. Stroking her soft white coat, he put his lips to her ear and whispered, “I will see you next summer, my pretty Lady White.”
The next morning, when his grandparents took him to the train station, Dickey was cheerfully as he boarded the train. “I will write you long letters, ” he promised, as he waved good-bye.
Grandfather’s face was bright as he watched the train pull out the station. He said a little prayer for the boy’s safe travel and thanked God for the blessing of his visit.
