Noah's crutches were against the wall. It had only been a few days, but he was already trying to move his foot without them, so that Mr. and Mrs. Meijer wouldn't think he was weak and might be unproductive longer.

He had just returned from gathering the eggs when he heard Mrs. Meijer calling him. He limped over. "Mornin' Mrs. Meijer. I'm alright. Lot's to do." He avoided looking at the newest member of the family. Every time he looked at the babe, he felt guilt tug at his insides and he couldn't help but wonder.

"Owt I can do fer ye?"