"I hope not," Matilda replied, knitting away gently with closed eyes. "I'm not one who takes pleasure in folks' disappointments and I'm glad to say the village inn is comfortable and not over crowded. I can, if it is necessary, tell Mary Jane to put an extra plate on for the evening meal."
"Wait and see how things turn out," cautiously advised Levi.
"What time is it now, brother?"
"Two-forty-five! But I put no faith in that train."
"Was that a letter from Sandy you got in the noon mail?"
"It was, Matilda. I think it would be safe to have an extra plate put on for him."
Matilda opened her eyes.
"Levi," she said; "I'm not one to nose about much, but what is the meaning of all this?"
Levi set his lips grimly.
"I never knew that Treadwell woman to break in after a long silence but for two things," he replied; "either she wants something or she wants to get rid of something. Three years back she asked for help when she found that precious nephew of hers——"