headaches in my house, poor little soul, that's certain; and the sooner
they can come the better I shall like it. So you will arrange it all for
me at once, won't you?"

Then Hetty went on to speak of some matters in regard to the farm about
which she was in doubt,--as to certain fields, and crops, and what
should be done with the young stock from last year. Presently the old
clock in the hall struck nine, and the village bells began to ring.

Hetty sprang to her feet.

"Dear me!" she exclaimed, "I had no idea it was so late. I only meant to
stay an hour. Nan will be frightened about me." And she was out of the
house and on her pony's back almost before Deacon Little could say,--

"But, Hetty, ain't you afraid to go home by yourself. I can go with you
's well 's not."

"Bless me, no!" said Hetty. "I always ride alone. Polly knows the road
as well as I do;" and she cantered off, saying cheerily, "Goodnight,
deacon, I can't tell you how much I'm obliged to you. Please see Jim 's
early 's you can to-morrow: I want to get settled and begin work."

When Hetty reached home, the house was silent and dark: only one feeble
light glimmered in the hall. As she threw open the door, old Caesar
and Nan rushed forward together from the kitchen, exclaiming, half
sobbing,--

"Oh, Miss Hetty! Miss Hetty! we made sure you was killed."