"Well, dear, do just as you think best," was that lady's reply. "Where do you intend to go?"
"I shall visit that farmer's place first," replied the girl. "Perhaps they can give me some information."
"I hope so. But have a cup of tea before you leave?"
"Thank you; I really don't care for it."
"Oh, but you must," insisted the good lady. "It will do you a heap of good. Just the thing to quiet your nerves."
Rather than displease her friend, Deb finally consented; and spent ten minutes in the back parlor, sipping the elderly maiden's favorite Young Hyson.
The girl was soon on her way. Farmer Farrell was well known throughout the district, and it did not take her long to reach his place.
She was thoroughly dismayed to learn that Jack had started for home at sundown the day before.
Not knowing where to go or what to do next, she retraced her steps toward Corney. She was in no hurry, and wandered in deep and painful contemplation, to one side of the road.
Near the old mill she stumbled over a bundle that lay in the grass near a tree. Without thinking, she was about to step over it, when something about the cloth covering attracted her attention, and picking it up, she was amazed to find that it was Jack's kit, wrapped in his overalls!