CHAPTER II.
Two quiet years passed, and Susannah had attained her eighteenth birthday.
On a certain day in the week there befell what the aunt called a "season" of baking.

It was the only occasion in the week when Mrs.Croom was sure to stay for some length of time in the same place with Susannah beside her.

Ephraim brought down his books to the hospitable kitchen, and sat aloof at a corner table.

He said the sun was too strong upon his upper windows, or that the rain was blowing in.

The first time that Ephraim sought refuge in the kitchen Mrs.Croom was quite flustered with delight.