An hour later the young man had driven his trap to the Mill and listened to John Best on the subject of immediate interest. The foreman decided against any innovation for the present and Daniel was glad. Then he asked for his brother.
"Is Mister Raymond here?"
"He was this morning; but he's not down this afternoon. At least he wasn't when I went to his office just before you came."
"Everything's all right, I suppose?"
Mr. Best looked uncomfortable.
"I'm afraid not, sir; but I hate talking. You'd better hear it from him."
Daniel's heart sank.
"Tell me," he said. "You're one of us, John—my father's right hand for twenty years—and our good is your good. If you know of trouble, tell me the truth. It may be better for him in the long run. Miss Ironsyde was bothered about him, to-day."
"If it's better for him, then I'll speak," answered Best. "He's a very clever young man and learning fast now. He's buckling to and getting on with it. But—Sabina Dinnett, our first spinner, gave notice on Saturday. She's not here to-day."
"What does that mean?"