"I shan't have to, I'll bet you, ma'am," she said.

"She ain't so anxious to have it talked about--not s'long as there's a chance to break it off, she ain't.

She'll keep still." "Maybe so, but folks'll suspect, I guess.

They'll think somethin's queer when you and Kenelm go to the Cattle Show together today." "No, they won't.

Why should they?
Didn't Hannah Parker herself go yesterday with Mr.Hammond?
And didn't Mr.Kendrick go with Miss Emily?
Yes, and you with Cap'n Bangs?
Lordy, ma'am, I--" "Don't say 'Lordy,' Imogene," cautioned Thankful, and hastened away.
Imogene looked after her and laughed to herself.
When Captain Obed made his morning call Mrs.Barnes told him of this conversation.
"And how is Hannah this mornin' ?" asked Thankful.