Penhallow himself drove his guest to meet the night express to the East, and well pleased with his day returned to find his wife talking with Rivers and John.

He sat down with them at the fire in the hall, saying, "I wanted to keep Woodburn longer, but he was wise not to stay.

What are you two talking over--you were laughing ?" "I," said Rivers, "was hearing how that very courteous gentleman chanced to dine with these mortal enemies who stole his property.

I kept quiet, Mrs.Penhallow said nothing, John ate his dinner, and no one quarrelled.
I longed for Mr.Grey--" "For shame," said Mrs.Ann.

"Tell him why we were laughing--it was at nothing particular." "It was about poor old Mrs.Burton." "What about her?
If you can make that widow interesting in any way, I shall be grateful." "It was about her dead husband--" "Am I to hear it or not ?" said Penhallow.