"People may grumble and be dissatisfied; but, thank Heaven, we haven't any one in these parts bad enough to do such a thing as that, eh, Hickathrift ?" "I dunno 'bout bad enew," said the big wheelwright; "but strikes me Farmer Tallington's right.

That stack couldn't set itself afire, and get bont up wi'out some one striking a light!" "No, no!" said the squire.

"I will not think such a thing of any neighbour for twenty miles round.

Now, Mr Tallington, come over to my place and have a comfortable meal; Mrs Tallington will come too." "Nay, we'll stop and try to put things right." "Shall I lend you a couple of men ?" "Nay, we'll wuck it oot oursens, and thank you all hearty for what you've done.

If your farm gets alight, neighbour, we'll come over as you have to us." "May the demand never arise!" said the squire to himself, as he and his party trudged away, all looking as blackened and disreputable a set as ever walked homeward on an early winter's morn.
Dick had made a good meal, and removed the black from his face after deciding that it would not be worth while to go to bed, when, as he went down the yard and caught sight of Solomon, he stopped to stare at the cunning animal, who seemed to be working about his ears like semaphores.
"I've a good mind to make him take me for a long ride!" said Dick to himself.