"Oh, yes, sir!" replied Susan, hastily. So then they returned to the
farm, for Mr. Eden's horse was in the stable. At the door they found
Mr. Merton.

"This is father, sir. Father, this is Mr. Eden, that is coming to take
the duty here for a while."

After the ordinary civilities Susan drew her father aside, and,
exchanging a few words with him, disappeared into the house. As Mr.
Eden was mounting his horse, Mr. Merton came forward and invited him
to stay at his house whenever he should come to the parish. Mr. Eden
hesitated.

"Sir," said the farmer, "you will find no lodgings comfortable within
a mile of the church, and we have a large house not half occupied. You
can make yourself quite at home."

"I am much obliged to you, Mr. Merton, but must not trespass too far
upon your courtesy."

"Well, sir," replied the farmer, "we shall feel proud if you can put
up with the like of us."

"I will come. I am much obliged to you, sir, and to your daughter."

He mounted his horse and bade the farmer good morning. Susan came out
and stood on the steps and curtsied low--rustic fashion--but with a
grace of her own. He took off his hat to her as he rode out of the
gate, gave her a sweet, bright smile of adieu, and went down the lane