“There isn’t a telegram in one o’ the letters, is there?” Lucinda asked, much appalled by the wink.
“No, there isn’t no telegram in none o’ the letters,” said Joshua.
“Joshua Whittlesey, I do believe you was born to drive saints mad. What is the matter?”
“Nothin’ ain’t the matter as I know of.”
“Then what in Kingdom Come did you wink for?”
“I winked,” said Joshua meaningly, “cause I expect it’ll be a good while before we’ll feel like winkin’ again.”
Lucinda gave him a look in which curiosity and aggravation fought catch-as-catch-can. Then she turned and went in with the letters.
Aunt Mary was sitting stonily staring at the rain.
“I thought you’d gone to take a drive with Joshua,” she said coldly. “Well, ’s long ’s you’re back I’ll be glad to have my mail. Most folks like to get their mail as soon as it comes an’ I—Mercy on us!”
It was the letter from the authorities enclosed in one from Mr. Stebbins.