“That’s what they ought to.”

“What’s the matter? Is the house afire?” demanded a woman sticking her head out beside that of the man.

“No, no, Mandy. Every time there’s any excitement at night you think there’s a fire.”

“Well, the chimbley was on fire onct!”

“Yes, but it isn’t now. This is a boy inquiring his way to Pokeville. Some one is sick and he’s taking her some medicine.”

“Who’s sick, boy?” asked the woman, determined not to miss a chance to hear some news, even if she had been awakened from sleep.

“Mrs. Randall.”

“What, not Lucy Randall, she that was a Savage?”

“She’s Mr. Savage’s sister.”

“Do tell! What’s the matter with her?”