“Was he out last night?”
“Yes,” said the girl; “but he came home early, and then went out for a bit; but he was in very soon, and sat up to let missus in, while I went to bed.”
“What time will he be up?” said Joe.
“Not before nine,” said the girl. “Shall I tell him you want him?”
“No,” said Joe. “I’ll come on again soon.”
Tom seemed surprised and troubled, for he had fully expected to find that Richard Glaire was from home.
“Thou’rt wrong, lad,” said Joe, drawing his breath through his teeth. “Some ill has fallen to the poor lass.”
“What’s up, Joe Banks?” said Harry, the big hammerman, straddling slowly up.
“Did’st see owt o’ my Daisy last night?” said Joe.
Harry pulled off his cap, and gave his head a rub before answering.