"What's the matter?" asked Sarah.
"The minister is coming!" he added, in a fearful whisper.
Footsteps were indeed heard approaching from the parlor. The young people were in a great flurry, and Sarah and Lizzie hastened to follow James' advice and example. But Chester would not give up his cards.
"Let him come," said he. "If he never saw a pack of cards, it is time he should see one. It is your play, Sarah."
Thus admonished, the children brought out their cards again, and recommenced playing, in a very confused manner. Chester's example was hardly sufficient to give them courage in the eyes of the minister.
They heard the door open, and there was not a face at the table, except Chester's, but burned with consciousness of guilt.
"Ah, how do you feel, after your journey?" asked Mr. Royden. "Hepsy, place a chair for Mr. Rensford."
"No, no; do not trouble yourself, my child," said the old gentleman, smiling kindly upon the girl. "Let me help myself."
He sat down in the seat she had vacated, behind Lizzie's chair.
"I feel much rested," he added, cheerily. "That nice cup of tea, Sister Royden, has made a new man of me."