One of those harmless, well-meaning, timid women, who seem not to possess ten ideas of their own, and are content to submit to others, she had often been seen in a shaky state from very trifling causes.

But she had never been seen like this.

The perspiration was pouring off her pinched face, and her blue check apron was incessantly raised to wipe it.
"What errand had you near the Willow Pond this evening ?" asked Mr.
Verner.
"I didn't see anything," she gasped, "I don't know anything.

As true as I sit here, sir, I never saw Rachel Frost this blessed evening." "I am not asking you about Rachel Frost.

_Were_ you near the spot ?" "Yes.