Luke lifted the bar and Albert pushed by. ‘I want a word with you, my lad.’ ‘Make it a quick word,’ said Luke. ‘I’m at Wentworth’s this morning fixing their pump and already behind time.’ ‘Aye, well, it won’t take but a minute.’ Luke pulled off of his nightshirt and ducking under the pump let water pound his body. Tonight he’ll drop by the Nelson and take a bath but for now this’ll have to do. Awake now he’s pulling on a clean shirt and pants. No time to shave he stuffed boots on his feet, ran his fingers through his hair, and grabbing a hunk of bread began to chew and all the while Albert’s fizzing. Ma’s been on at him. Something’s been said and she’s nagged him until he can’t think straight. ‘What’s to do, Pa?’ Albert blew up. ‘Don’t ask me what’s to do when you know damn well! Where the heck were you last night? You told your mother you’d drop by.’ ‘Something cropped up.’ ‘And we all know what! I know, your mother knows, and Pastor Meakins at the chapel knows!
