"The water-leat will run through your back orchard, won't it?"
"Yes; I'd counted upon that. The new leat goes from one side to t'other. 'Twill be a great source of strength and improve the value of the property."
"The sooner you buy the better then—afore Widow Routleigh understands—eh?"
He hesitated a moment, then confessed.
"I have bought," he said.
"Well done you! Why didn't you tell me?"
"I was going to. But keep silent as the pit about it. Only me, an' her, and her lawyer knows. As a matter of fact, I bought before the leat got near the place. I knowed 'twas coming; they never thought of it."
"You'm a wonder!"
She looked at the house destined for her son and his bride.
"You won't be far off—that's to the good. You an' me must always be close cronies, Jar. Who else have I got?"