"Is the Deacon at home?" inquired he, endeavoring to disguise his voice.
"No," said Mrs. Mason, "he has gone to Eastborough Centre on some business, but told me he would be back about half past nine."
"Is Hiram here?" asked Strout.
"He's out in the kitchen polishing up his bugle," said Mrs. Mason. "But come in a minute, Mr. Strout, I have got something to fell you."
Strout stepped in and quietly closed the door.
"What's the matter, Mrs. Mason? I hope Huldy isn't sick."
"No," said she, "it's unfortunate it has happened as it has, but it couldn't be avoided. You see she invited some company to tea, and I supposed that they would have gone home long 'fore this. You see, Huldy don't suspect nothing, and she has asked them to spend the evening, and I don't see how in the world I am going to get rid of them."
"Don't do it," said Strout. "Extend to them an invitation in my name to remain and enjoy the evening's festivities with us. No doubt Miss Huldy will be pleased to have them stay."
"I know she will," said Mrs. Mason, "and I'll give them your invite as soon as you're ready."
"Well, Mrs. Mason," said Strout, "just tell Hiram I am ready to have him blow that bugle, and when you hear it you can just tell your daughter and her friends what's up."