Rensselaer Semi-Weekly Republican, Volume 40, Number 30, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 20 December 1907 — Farmer Pettigrew’s Gifts [ARTICLE]

Farmer Pettigrew’s Gifts

■Old farmer Pettigrew was driving along the pike toward town, his grays going at a brisk rate. "There’s that young Evans walking," fe* said to himself; "he’s dressed up like he was goln’ to catch the train.** “Goin* up the road, Bob?” he said, as he passed the younger man; "I’m feound for the burg.” "I was going down by train, but don’t mind riding behind your grays,” laughed the other, climbing In; "that is, if you’ll agree to bring my stuff pack.” "SO *t ain’t two wagon loads,'” was the retort He liked Bob Evans because he joked and laughed and was good company. College boy, too. Education had never liurt him. Fine farmer, steady and smart “What’ll your load be?” he asked Bob, as the hard mud flew under the horses’ feet “Not much weight,” laughed his companion. "Christmas gifts. This is the time when a little money buys a lot •f things to warm the heart” “Bho,” said Fanner Pettigrew, “whs* you’re as old as I am you won’t bo spending money for Christmas. Thar’s do one but me and mother now. We’d look fine making Christmas presents?* "That you would,” said Evans, heartily, "and it would make good old Aunt Pettigrew feel ten years younger.” "Now, Bob,” exclaimed the old man, "air you in earnest?” “Never was more so. She is often lonely since your daughter moved West She would not only be surprised, but happy. Try It once,” he added. "What are you going to get Addle?" ."Me? Oh, I’ve been planning for months. A new dress, for one. Books Che wanted. Some little knick-knack*. Nothing is too good for my wife. She deserves more than I can give her. But lam getting things for mother. I wouldn’t forget her. We’ll go over tomarrow afternoon, and see how happy Whs’ll be over our presents.” "1 never did give anything *cspt a