He heard his stealthy tread, after a while, disturb a loose board on the upper porch.

Then he began to talk to Cynthy Ann in this strain: "You see, I can't tell no secrets, Cynthy Ann, even to your Royal Goodness, as I might say, seein' as how as you a'n't my wife, and a'n't likely to be, if Brother Goshorn can have his way.

But you're the Queen of Hearts, anyhow.

But s'pose I was to hint a secret ?" "Sh--sh--h-h-h!" said Cynthy Ann, partly because she felt a sinful pleasure in the flattery, and partly because she felt sure that Humphreys was above.

But Jonas paid no attention to the caution.
"I'll give you a hint as strong as a Irishman's, which they do say'll knock you down.