"Perhaps so, but I couldn't understand all, for I came in while
they were at it, and left home before they were done. I'm sure if
he stays there I shall not. I shall leave home, for I really dislike
to meet him."

"You shall stay with me, Bill, and we'll have Sall at all hours,"
was the hearty speech of the cousin, as he threw his arms around
the neck of his morose companion, and dragged him gently toward
the adjoining apartment, which formed his chamber. "To-morrow," he
continued, "as you say, we'll see this chap, and if he's anything
like Joe Richards--" The doubled fist of the speaker, and his
threatening visage, completed the sentence with which this present
conference and chapter may very well conclude.






CHAPTER VI.

THE TOAD ON THE ALTAR.





The next day was the sabbath. John Cross had timed his arrival at
the village with a due reference to his duties, and after a minute
calculation of days and distances, so that his spiritual manna might