“Is Ben back?”
“Ay, early this morning.”
“Did he meet any one he knew?”
“He met Tim Hardcastle just outside Hallam, that night. Tim said, ‘Thou’s late starting wheriver to, Ben;’ and Ben said, ‘Nay, I’m early. If a man wants a bit o’ good wool he’s got to be after it.’ This morning he came back wi’ tax-cart full o’ wool.”
“And my brother?”
“He sailed from Whitehaven yesterday.”
“To what place?”
“Ben asked no questions. If he doesn’t know where Mr. Hallam went to, he can’t say as he does. It’s best to know nowt, if you are asked.”
“O Martha!”
“Hush, dearie! Thou must go and sleep now. Thou’s fair worn out. To-morrow’ll do for crying.”