You won't feel lonely, will you?"

"I am used to being alone till nine o'clock, when you are at the
store."

This conversation took place at the supper table. Ben went directly
from the store to the Town Hall, where he enjoyed himself as much as
he anticipated. If he could have foreseen how his mother was to pass
that evening, it would have destroyed all is enjoyment.




CHAPTER III
MRS. BARCLAY'S CALLERS


About half-past eight o'clock Mrs. Barclay sat with her work in her
hand. Her headache was better, but she did not regret not having
accompanied Ben to the Town Hall.

"I am glad Ben is enjoying himself," she thought, "but I would rather
stay quietly at home. Poor boy! he works hard enough, and needs
recreation now and then."

Just then a knock was heard at the outside door.

"I wonder who it can be?" thought the widow. "I supposed everybody
would be at the Town Hall. It may be Mrs. Perkins come to borrow
something."