"I've took a hasty cup," he answered, "but could very well do with another."
"And how's Mister Roberts, Sarah?" asked her aunt.
"Fine. He's playing in a cricket match to-day—Bridetown against Chilcombe. They've asked him to play for Bridport since Mister Raymond saw him bowl. He's very pleased about it."
"Teetotal, isn't he?" asked Mr. Job.
"Yes, Mister Legg. Nick have never once touched a drop in all his life and never means to."
"A pity there ain't more of the same way of thinking," said Mrs. Northover. "And I say that, though a publican and the wife of a publican; and so do you, don't you, Job?"
"Most steadfast," he replied. "When I took on barman as a profession, I never lifted pot or glass again to my own lips, and have stood between many a young man and the last half pint. I tell you this to your face, Missis Northover. Not an hour ago I was at 'The Tiger,' to let Richard Gurd know the stable was ready, and in the private bar there were six young men, all drinking for the pleasure of drinking. If the younger generation only lapped when 'twas thirsty, half the drinking-places would shut, and there wouldn't be no more brewers in the peerage."
He shook his head and drank his tea.
Mrs. Northover changed the subject.
"How's the works?" she asked. "Do the people like the new master?"