“By that time the approaching party had come up with him, and one of them, who had recognized his voice, called out:
“‘Is that you, Joe?’
“‘Yes, Thomas Estel, it is I, and I have lost my way in the dark, and want to be set on my right road for Hayhurst Farm,’ replied the youth.
“‘All right. But come with us first. We won’t keep you long. And you’ll see some roaring fun.’
“‘But it is late, and I want to get home to Lil,’ objected Joe.
“‘And so you shall in good time; but come with us first.’
“‘Where are you going?’
“‘Not out of your way home. Quite on the same road. This road. Such a lark! You’ll never forgive yourself if you miss it.’
“Poor Joe! He was always ready for a lark. He joined himself to the half dozen boys, whom, as his eyes became accustomed to the darkness, he began to recognize as his village acquaintances; but more from their general appearance than from their faces, which were all half masked.
“‘Is it mumming?’ inquired Joe.