I am sick at heart for news of him, and perchance I may get it where I be going.

I shall be near his home and his kinsfolk." Jacob had sat down, and was turning his cap round and round in those large red hands that were such an offence to the girl.

After a few moments of silence he looked up and said: "Cherry, hast thou ever thought of the things thou hast said to me--of the promise thou hast given ?" She bent her head low, and the whispered "Yes," was barely audible.
"Thou wilt not go back from thy word ?" She raised her head suddenly and said: "No, Jacob, I will not go back from my word.

Thou hast been very good and kind and patient; and if in time to come it should be proved that Cuthbert is dead, or has wed another and been false to me, then I will say naught against thee, but will do as my father saith, and strive to make thee a good wife.

But I have never promised to love thee as a wife should love her husband.