Anyhow, he is a better companion for the boy than the lads down in the village; and there is no saying, wife, how matters may go in this unhappy country.

It may be that we may come to our own again.

It may be that we may lose what is left to us.

Anyhow, it can do no harm to Walter that he should have, as a friend, one in the opposite camp." Somewhat similar was the talk between Hannah and Jabez, although, in their case, the wife was the speaker.
"John has told me, Jabez, that he has several times met young Davenant, and that the boy is disposed to be friendly with him; and he has asked me to speak with you, to know whether you have any objection to his making a friend of him." "What do you say, Hannah ?" Jabez asked cautiously.

"My father, I fear, would not approve of it." "Your father need know nothing about it, Jabez.