For the last mile of the way, there had been a gentleman riding
along in advance of Mr. Bolton, and as the horse of the latter made
a little the best speed, he gained on him slowly, until, just as he
reached the point where the road leading to his farm left the
turnpike, he came up with him.

"Mr. Bolton, I believe," said the gentleman, smiling, as both, in
turning into the narrow lane, came up side by side.

"That is my name," was replied.

"And mine is Halpin," returned the other, offering his hand, which
Mr. Bolton could but take, though not so cordially as would have
been the case had the gate opening from his farm into Mr. Halpin's
been on its hinges. "I have often heard my brother-in-law, Judge
Caldwell, speak of you and your lady. We promise ourselves much
pleasure in having you for neighbours. Mrs. Halpin and I will take a
very early opportunity to call upon you. How is all your family?"

"Quite well, I thank you," replied Mr. Bolton, trying to appear
polite and pleased, yet half averting his face from the earnest eyes
of Mr. Halpin.

"We have had a beautiful day," said the latter, who perceived that,
from some cause, Mr. Bolton was not at ease.

"Very beautiful," was the brief answer.

"You have been into the city," said Mr. Halpin, after a brief pause.