A horseman was approaching the house.

A single glance showed her that it was neither Falkner, Lee, nor Hale, but a stranger.
"Perhaps he brings some news of them," said Mrs.Scott quickly.

So complete had been their preoccupation with the loss of their guests that they could not yet conceive of anything that did not pertain to it.
The stranger, who was at once ushered into the parlor, was evidently disconcerted by the presence of the three women.
"I reckoned to see John Hale yer," he began, awkwardly.
A slight look of disappointment passed over their faces.

"He has not yet returned," said Mrs.Hale briefly.
"Sho! I wanter know.

He's hed time to do it, I reckon," said the stranger.
"I suppose he hasn't been able to get over from the Summit," returned Mrs.Hale.