"'But the constable? I don't want any constable.'
"'And you don't want Mr. Dickey?'
"'He's better than the constable.'
"'Very well; Mr. Dickey, will you stay?'
"'Yes, I'll stay; that's right, isn't it, Susan?'
"Miss Thompson who had been looking somewhat uneasy, brightened up as he spoke and answered cheerfully:
"'Yes, that's right. But who will see me home?'
"'Can you ask?' I inquired.
"She smiled and the matter was settled.
"In the hall I had the chance to whisper to Mr. Dickey: