Sally knew not of our entrance; she was out, watching the rioters.
No one saw us but Jem, and Jem's honour was safe as a rock. I knew
that in the smile with which he pulled off his cap to "Mr. Halifax."

"Now," said John, hastily smoothing his bed, so that my father might
lie down, and wrapping his cloak round me--"you must both be very
still. You will likely have to spend the night here. Jem shall
bring you a light and supper. You will make yourself easy, Abel
Fletcher?"

"Ay." It was strange to see how decidedly, yet respectfully, John
spoke, and how quietly my father answered.

"And, Phineas"--he put his arm round my shoulder in his old way--"you
will take care of yourself. Are you any stronger than you used to
be?"

I clasped his hand without reply. My heart melted to hear that
tender accent, so familiar once. All was happening for the best, if
it only gave me back David.

"Now good-bye--I must be off."

"Whither?" said my father, rousing himself.

"To try and save the house and the tan-yard--I fear we must give up
the mill. No, don't hold me, Phineas. I run no risk: everybody
knows me. Besides, I am young. There! see after your father. I
shall come back in good time."