John Massingbird had his reasons for this.

It was announced in the household that Mr.Massingbird was departing on a visit to town, the only one who was told the truth being Rachel Frost.

Rachel was looked upon almost as one of themselves.

Frederick Massingbird had also confided it to Sibylla West--but Frederick and Sibylla were on more confidential terms than was suspected by the world.

John had made a confident on his own part, and that was of Luke Roy.