parlor fire and sat down sniffling in the farthest corner.

"There shall be only one mistress in this house," said Mrs. Mumpson, who had
now reached the loftiest plane of virtuous indignation, "and its master shall
learn that his practices reflect upon even me as well as himself."

At last the sound of horses' feet were heard on the wet, oozy ground without.
The irate widow did not rise, but merely indicated her knowledge of Holcroft's
arrival by rocking more rapidly.

"Hello, there, Jane!" he shouted, "bring a light to the kitchen."

"Jane, remain!" said Mrs. Mumpson, with an awful look.

Holcroft stumbled through the dark kitchen to the parlor door and looked with
surprise at the group before him,--Mrs. Mumpson apparently oblivious and
rocking as if the chair was possessed, and the child crying in a corner.

"Jane, didn't you hear me call for a light?" he asked a little sharply.

Mrs. Mumpson rose with great dignity and began, "Mr. Holcroft, I wish to
remonstrate--"

"Oh, bother! I've brought a woman to help you, and we're both wet through
from this driving rain."

"You've brought a strange female at this time of--"

Holcroft's patience gave say, but he only said quietly, "You had better have a
light in the kitchen within two minutes. I warn you both. I also wish some