look on it as a business arrangement. I have quiet ways of my own, and things
belonging to the past to think about, and I've got a right to think about 'em.
I aint one of the marrying kind, and I don't want people to be a-considering
such notions when I don't. I'd be kind and all that to her and her little
girl, but I should want to be left to myself as far as I could be."

"Oh, certainly," said Mr. Weeks, mentally chuckling over the slight prospect
of such immunity, "but you must remember that Mrs. Mumpson isn't like common
help--"

"That's where the trouble will come in," ejaculated the perplexed farmer, "but
there's been trouble enough with the other sort."

"I should say so," Mr. Weeks remarked emphatically. "It would be a pity if you
couldn't get along with such a respectable, conscientious woman as Mrs.
Mumpson, who comes from one of the best families in the country."

Holcroft removed his hat and passed his hand over his brow wearily as he said,
"Oh, I could get along with anyone who would do the work in a way that would
give me a chance to make a little, and then leave me to myself."

"Well, well," said Mr. Weeks, laughing, "you needn't think that because I've
hinted at a good match for you I'm making one for my wife's cousin. You may
see the day when you'll be more hot for it than she is. All I'm, trying to do
is to help you keep your place, and live like a man ought and stop people's
mouths."

"If I could only fill my own and live in peace, it's all I ask. When I get to
plowing and planting again I'll begin to take some comfort."