"I don't think you really want this kind of doll, Precious. Even though it's cheap, it's not worth the money." Self-pity tears filled Precious' eyes. "But Mama... I love her, I really do. I don't care if she's got a broken finger. And I have the money... she's on sale...."

"Rats. They are chewing on something," said Precious. "I'm going to see what it is." She turned the door handle and poked her head into the dark room. The scratching stopped. "Get a flashlight," she whispered to her brother.

"Isn't Tall Friend kind to us?" Gran Coon whispered in Sobbit's ear. "We have no reason to worry, do we?" "But someday Tall Friend might forget us," Sobbit Wimba said, as he watched the canoe glide away. "What will we do then?"