"'Twas rather a deep cut seemingly?" said Reuben, feeling these to be the
kindest and best remarks he could make.

"O, no; not particularly."

"Well, sir, your hand will shake sometimes a-shaving, and just when it
comes into your head that you may cut yourself, there's the blood."

"I have been revolving in my mind that question of the time at which we
make the change," said Mr. Maybold, "and I know you'll meet me half-way.
I think Christmas-day as much too late for me as the present time is too
early for you. I suggest Michaelmas or thereabout as a convenient time
for both parties; for I think your objection to a Sunday which has no
name is not one of any real weight."

"Very good, sir. I suppose mortal men mustn't expect their own way
entirely; and I express in all our names that we'll make shift and be
satisfied with what you say." The tranter touched the brim of his
imaginary hat again, and all the choir did the same. "About Michaelmas,
then, as far as you are concerned, sir, and then we make room for the
next generation."

"About Michaelmas," said the vicar.



CHAPTER V: RETURNING HOME WARD


"'A took it very well, then?" said Mail, as they all walked up the hill.