“I want my horse and trap,” said Mr. Goddard, “and I want to pay my bill. I am going back to Ballymoy at once.”
“I wouldn’t say but you’re right,” said Jimmy, “if them ones is likely to be back here in the course of the day.”
“It’s not that. I don’t mind about them. It’s business that’s taking me home—important business.”
This was too much for Jimmy O’Loughlin. His tact and manners were good, but he was not going to allow Mr. Goddard to escape without an allusion to Miss Blow.
“The doctor’s young lady is within, waiting for you,” he said.
“I know that; but I haven’t time to talk to her now. In fact, it is most important that I should get away without her seeing me—on account of my business.”
“I wouldn’t say but you might be right there too,” said Jimmy.
They set to work together and harnessed Mr. Goddard’s horse. They led him into the yard and put him between the shafts of the trap as silently as possible.
“I’m thinking,” said Jimmy, “that maybe it would be better for you not to be paying me the trifle that’s due for your bed and your dinner until the next time you’re over.”
“Very well. Then I’ll be able to start at once.”