"The Church and all connected with it. Mr. Stubbles has been a warden here for years, and the way he has acted has been partly the cause of father's bitter feelings. Now he will be worse than ever. I wonder what the new clergyman will be like."
"Perhaps he may be able to settle matters."
"I am afraid not. He will have to do as the Stubbles say or leave, just as the others did. If he should happen to be a very strong-minded man and will stand up for justice and right, he will have a most difficult time of it. In that case, father would be his firm friend, though I fear he could do but little to help him."
"His moral assistance would mean much, though, would it not?"
"Perhaps so," and Nell sighed. "But I think I must go home now. Father and Nan will be wondering what has kept me. Won't you come and see father? I know he wants to talk to you about his book. I am thankful he has something to occupy his mind."
CHAPTER XXI
OUTDONE
When they reached the house, they found Nan up in arms. She scolded Nell for being away so long and leaving her to get supper and wash the dishes.
"I don't think it is fair," she pouted. "You go off and have a good time, while I must stay home and drudge like a slave."
"You do not look any the worse for it," Douglas laughingly told her.
"It seems to agree with you. I never saw you look better."