"And Mr. Dalton, it ain't any of my business, but us folks can't help noticing how things are going with our bosses—specially when we're fond of them. I hope it's true about you and Miss Lavillotte, for I believe you're just made for each other—you don't mind my speaking out?"
"No, Dan; it's all been speaking out to-night. Just between ourselves and the Heaven up there. And, in that way, I'll say, I'm afraid, my boy, I'm afraid! She's away beyond me."
"She's a beauty, and like a queen, but she isn't too good for you, sir."
"Thank you, Dan, but you don't know all."
Dalton had risen now, and they stood facing each other. Something in his voice made Dan look at him keenly.
"Rachel has suspected something, and she's whispered it to me, sir. We've been wondering if there is a 'young Early,' and if there isn't—" He stopped, and Dalton's hand pressed his arm.
"Dan, I can trust you and Rachel?"
"To the death, sir!"
"Then, you understand. She is the one. She owns it all. You see, now, why I cannot aspire to her."
"No, sir, I don't! I see why you're just the man to help her in doing a great, good work, and making of us all the loyalest workmen that ever lived. Don't you never give her up, sir, never!"