With Sarah Ann the result of his interview was the same.
"You took my raspberries, you say? Why, I planted those raspberries near the fence for the children. You were welcome to them, Alvin."
But the way of peace was not always so easy.
"What!" roared Bevy, furious because he dared to approach her. "You stole cakes off of me! I bet you did, Alvin. You want to pay me? Nothing of the kind. You pay Katy what you owe her. Get out of here!"
Threatened with the broom, Alvin stood his ground bravely. As a matter of fact, Bevy had been strictly charged by the squire to let no word of what had happened escape her. But there was no reason why she should not give Alvin a piece of her mind.
"You are good-for-nothing, Alvin. I should think you would be ashamed of yourself. I should think you would go and hide!"
Then upon the angry fire of Bevy's rage, Alvin undertook to pour the water of a pleasant announcement.
"I am going to join your church, Bevy."
"Nonsense!" shrieked Bevy. "Humbug! They wouldn't have you!"
Alvin grew maudlin in his humility.