The bell ringing again more violently than before made Mrs. Harrison hasten away, and she had just gone when the clock struck six.
"I should like to take Bet home, Uncle Bobo. That will be such a nice end to our feast. Will you come?"
Uncle Bobo was not fond of walking, but he never liked to refuse Joy anything, and very soon he might be seen toddling along the row, with his short, stout legs, and rosy apple face, singing out a cheery "Good-evening" to such neighbours as were about, and taking Joy's little hand in his, while she danced at his side. Presently she let go her hold on Uncle Bobo's hand, and said in a low voice—
"I think I'd better walk with poor Bet, Uncle Bobo. She looks so sad walking behind us."
"So do, my Joy, so do. You've a kind little heart, and may no one ever say a cross word to you, or do an unkind action."
Joy fell back with a radiant smile, and, putting her hand into Bet's arm, drew her on in front.
CHAPTER VI.
A VISIT TO THE SKINNERS.
Mr. Skinner was very like his mother. No one could mistake that they bore this relationship.