There was no danger in her doing that, I know--and yet I'd have given almost everything I have, not to let her be shown about as she is.

But I was threatened again, in the vilest, wickedest way--I hardly know how to tell it, gentlemen, in the presence of such as you--Jubber, you must know--" Just as Mrs.Peckover, with very painful hesitation, pronounced the last words, the hall clock of the Rectory struck two.

She heard it, and stopped instantly.
"Oh, if you please, sir, was that two o'clock ?" she asked, starting up with a look of alarm.
"Yes, Mrs.Peckover," said the rector; "but really, after having been indebted to you for so much that has deeply interested and affected us, we can't possibly think of letting you and little Mary leave the Rectory yet." "Indeed we must, sir; and many thanks to you for wanting to keep us longer," said Mrs.Peckover.

"What I was going to say isn't much; it's quite as well you shouldn't hear it--and indeed, indeed, ma'am, we must go directly.

I told this gentleman here, Mr.Blyth, when I come in, that I'd stolen to you unawares, under pretense of taking little Mary out for a walk.