She walked over shyly, holding the knife in one hand, and stretching
forward for the other.

"Sit down here beside me, on the settle, my dear."

"I must do what 'Mandy ordered me, sir," she said, excusingly.

"Oh, don't you fear Amanda," he said; "I will be your security, my
little woman, that she won't be displeased. Dear me, what nice hair and
purty curls you have! and such beautiful teeth! Don't you think Miss
Amanda is jealous of your charms? eh? Why do you turn away your head, my
pet?"

"I don't like such talk, sir," she answered. "My Prayer Book, in the
'Table of Sins,' says it is a sin to listen to praise or flattery."

"Well said, my little lady," said the tempter. "You are right, Bridget;
I was only trying you. I do not wish you to sin. You know I am the
minister. I love you, and wish to see you a good Christian," said he,
caressing her.

"I thank you, sir," was her answer.

"Now, my little good one, I want to tell you some news. I have a message
for you,--a letter from a friend."

"Please show it, sir," she said, impatiently; "perhaps it is from my
uncle, in Ireland, to whom Paul often wrote, but never got an answer
back."