Read the excerpt from "A Friend in Need."

A cloud seemed to pass over Papa's face. "I wish there was something I could do to help them out, but I can't afford to hire a hand," he said.

According to this description, Jeb’s father is

uninterested.
concerned.
annoyed.
joyful.

concerned.

According to the excerpt from "A Friend in Need," Jeb's father is concerned. This can be inferred from his statement, "I wish there was something I could do to help them out." He expresses a sense of worry or sympathy for the people he wants to help but feels unable to do so due to financial constraints.

According to this description, Jeb's father is concerned.