“Any news?” he asked sharply.
“No, captain. Nothing at all,” replied the shoemaker.
“You’re not worth your salt, Andy,” declared the officer. “I’ll wager this small maid here would have quicker ears for news.”
Faith wished that she could run away, but did not dare to move.
“Well, another summer we’ll put the old fort in order and have a garrison that will be worth while. Now, what about my riding boots?” he added, and after a little talk the officer departed.
It was not long before Mrs. Scott called for her little niece and the two started for home.
Faith told her aunt what the shoemaker had said about his little girl, and noticed that Aunt Prissy’s face was rather grave and troubled.
“Do I have to go, Aunt Prissy?” she asked.
“We’ll see, my dear. But now we must hurry home, and sew on the new dresses,” replied Aunt Prissy, and for a few moments they walked on in silence.