"Faith hath some work——"
"Nay," interposed Madam Wetherill, "ten minutes' run will make her all the brisker for work. Run along, children; and have a little visit with each other."
There was something in Madam Wetherill not easily gainsaid. Rachel saved up her displeasure for a scolding presently.
Andrew attended the lady to the stalls where the horses had been led.
"Thou hast not been in to market of late?"
"There had been so much disorder, and I believe a permit is needed. Then there have been people about, buying up produce of all kinds."
"Dost thou know anything of the other army?" Her voice was very low.
"Somewhat," in a hesitating tone.
"They are likely to need many things. Howe's purpose to attack them was frustrated by a timely warning. There may be other warnings as well, for the army contains many braggarts. And their winter of dissipation, of gambling and betting and carousing, will not fit them for a spring campaign. I heard it said that Philadelphia was capturing them by allurements, and it may be a poor victory for General Howe. I have a faith—I cannot tell thee of any tangible groundwork, but I feel assured we shall win."
"It is dark enough now."