"Indeed I will."
"Parson'll let you off, afternoons, for an hour, maybe; and the bike'll make all the difference. I see you nipping down in no time."
"I shall love that, if Mr. Hamlin can spare me."
Alfred laughed gaily.
"I've spoken a word to him. And a kinder gentleman, in spite of his coldish face, I never met. He shook hands with me, and told me you should have a whiff of fresh air."
And thus it was cosily arranged.
To find a responsible, capable fellow to take his place as village carrier, and to drive the precious 'bus, was not so easy of achievement. But this, too, was managed through Mr. Hamlin. Alfred said uneasily:
"I ask you, sir, to keep an eye on William Saint."
"William Saint?"
"He's crafty as any fox, sir, and a rare pusher. Mother fears that he may push himself into my good business."