Mercy forced herself to go through her usual routine of morning work.

She was systematic almost to a fault in the arrangement of her time, and any interference with her hours was usually a severe trial of her patience.

But to-day it was only by a great effort of her will that she refrained from setting out earlier than usual for the village.

She walked rapidly until she approached the street where Stephen had joined her before.

Then she slackened her pace, and fixed her eyes on the street.