Hannah scanned her niece all over with a slow, observant scrutiny, as though she were a dangerous animal that must be watched.

Otherwise Louie might have spoken to the wall for all the effect she produced.

Reuben, however, was more vulnerable.
'What d' yo want to be at Wigson's for ?' he asked.

'Yo should be content wi your state o' life, Louie.

It's a sin to be discontented--I've tellt yo so many times.' 'They've got scones and rhubarb jam for tea!' cried the child, tumbling the news out as though she were bursting with it.