She led the way toward the house, and the three entered.
Haverland introduced his friend to his sister and wife, as a man who had chanced down in this direction, and who would probably tarry a few days. But the quick eye of his wife caught the thoughtful expression upon her husband’s face, and she felt there was something yet unrevealed—something deeper and more important, that was to be disclosed. She, however, forbore questioning or hinting, knowing that he would communicate what was necessary, when he deemed the proper time had come.
A common-place conversation was maintained until the meal was prepared by the busy housewife, when they all gathered around the board. An earnest blessing was invoked upon the humble food, and it was partaken of in silence.
“Wife,” said Haverland tenderly, “I will depart awhile with this friend here, and you and Mary may busy yourselves as you think best till I return. Probably I will not be back until toward night. Take no anxiety upon my account.”
“I will endeavor not to, but, dear husband, go not far from home, for strange fears have come over me since morning.”
Even the usually staid and calm face of Mary, betrayed an unusual expression of anxiety.
“Fear not, wife, I will not go far.”
Haverland now stepped outside, where he saw Seth, all agape, gazing at Ina, as she passed to and fro in the house.
“By gracious, you, I’m goin’ to fall in love with that gal. No ’bjections, hope?”