would not have been written. We will simply speak of them as Dick and
Jack. One was the overlooker under whom she worked, this was Dick, a
prime favourite with the masters, and a clever, honest chap he was.

Jack was known as "Th' oiler," his duty being to attend to the long
lines of shafting and revolving pullies. Much of his work, especially
the more dangerous part of it, had to be performed whilst the engine was
stopped.

Never were known two truer friends than Dick and Jack. After working
hours they were seldom separated. They worked together in the little
allotment garden which they jointly rented. Even the pig was a
partnership concern. Although they were friendly with all they came in
contact with, they never made any other special friendships. They were
satisfied to be with each other and so confidential were they, that they
each lived in the other's life.

Nicknames were common at that day, and Dick was generally spoken of as
"True Blue," because of his unswerving integrity. Jack had to be content
with the less euphonious title "Th' oiler."

They were neither of them blind to Susy's charms, and admiration blended
with pity, and pity, where a beautiful woman is concerned, is likely to
lead to something else. They often spoke of her to each other, but it
was the only subject on which they ever conversed, that they were not
entirely open and honest about. Dick's position gave him many
opportunities to be near Susy, and it was remarked that her loom seemed
to require more attention than any other under his surveillance.

Susy, with that quick instinct which all women seem to be possessed, saw