"Why, I imagine so. We'll need supplies."
The man hesitated, and then said in a tone which he tried to make sound casual: "It might be just as well for you not to mention to folks that you saw my nephew. Not that I have any secrets to keep. I just don't like folks nosing into my affairs. Anyway, Walter's gone now and it's no one's business but my own."
"I am a stranger in the community," replied Penny. "I'd have no occasion to speak of your nephew."
"That's what I thought," said Herman Crocker in a tone of relief. "Well, if there's anything more you need, let me know. And I'll see that you get a supply of wood before nightfall."
"Thank you," Penny responded.
She permitted herself a smile as she walked down the lane with the arm load of bedding. It was easy enough to see why Mr. Crocker had become so obliging. He expected a favor in return—her silence regarding Walter Crocker.
"He acts almost as if he is ashamed of his nephew," she thought. "I wonder why he doesn't wish folks to learn about him."
Mr. Nichols had finished shaving by the time Penny reached the cottage.
"Well, I hope you rounded up some breakfast for us," he remarked.
Penny shook her head as she dropped the pile of linen on the table.