His uncle asked him whether James was out in the barn.

Marco said that he was, and his uncle then asked him to go and request James to come to him.

Marco did so, and he and James then came along toward the house together.
Marco's uncle stood upon the step of the door.
"James," said he, "I was thinking that we ought to send for the horses;--and the apples ought to be gathered too.

Which is it best to do ?" "I hardly know, sir," said James.

"It is high time that the apples were gathered, and yet we promised to send for the horses to-day." "I can go and get the horses," said Marco,--"just as well as not.
Where is it ?" "Oh no," said his uncle.