We may yet make a second Jean Valjean of the despised Nick Lang; and that would be an achievement worthy of anyone." Hugh felt more than repaid for all he had done when he heard the old deacon say this with such warmth.
"There was one thing I wanted to learn, sir, if you don't mind telling me," he went on to say.

"It concerns his engagement to come out here and help you last night.

Were you expecting him?
Was Saturday night the one he generally took to come and help you get rid of some of your extra work that couldn't be done in the daytime, for all the horse-shoeing you have on your hands ?" The deacon smiled, and Hugh really had his answer before the old man even opened his lips.

All the same he was pleased to hear him say: "Up to now it has always been on Monday night Nick came out.

That was more convenient for me, as a rule, and he accommodated himself to my wishes.