sigh.

"Thy absence would be fatal to some in the country," I heard Silas
Jones remark, and with a look designed to be very reproachful.

"Don't tell me that. Melissa Bunting would soon console thee."

"Thee stands city life quite well, Emily," said Mrs. Yocomb.

"Yes, better than I once did. I am learning how to live there and
still enjoy a little of your quiet; but were it not for my long
summers in the country I fear it would go hard with me also."

"You have suggested my remedy," I said. "My business does not permit
much chance for rest, unless it is taken resolutely; and, like many
other sinners, I have great reforms in contemplation."

"It must be a dreadful business that came so near killing you," Adah
remarked, looking at me curiously. "What can it be?"

Mrs. Yocomb glanced at her daughter reprovingly, but Miss Warren's
eyes were dancing, and I saw she was enjoying my rather blank look
immensely.

T decided, however, that honesty and audacity would be my best allies,
and at the same time I hoped to punish Adah a little through her
curiosity,

"I must admit that it is a dreadful business. Deeds of darkness occupy
much of my time; and when good, honest men, like your father, are