He did not return at once to his parish, but found a substitute to do his work there, and went inland for a month, seeking by change and relaxation to attain to the true judgment of calm pulses and quiet nerves.

It was in April and in Lent that he returned.
Higgs, the irrepressible, received him with joy.

'It's you that are the good sight for sore eyes,' he said.

'Not but what we've been 'aving an uncommon peaceful time for Lent.

The vicar's lady she's took bad and took to bed.' The curate reproved the wicked Higgs, but he inquired after the health of the invalid.
'I hope Mrs.Moore is not very ill ?' 'Bless you, no, sir; she's 'ale and 'earty.