F. Yes, I do. This morning I was awakened by the sound of a bell. I listened, wondering what could be the matter. There were sounds from below, as if something had happened. Doors were opened and shut hurriedly, and I could hear the voices of men outside. I dressed as quickly as I could, and hurried downstairs. But it appeared that nothing unusual had taken place. Mrs. Leighton was getting breakfast, and you were laying the table. I glanced up at the clock, and saw that it was a quarter past four o’clock (smiling),—about four hours earlier than I have been accustomed to rise. Then it occurred to me that people living on farms are obliged to get up early.
Mrs. L. Yes, my mother used to say that an hour in the morning was worth three later in the day. But did you rest well, Mr. Forrester?
F. Oh yes, very well.
Mrs. L. When I pass the night in the city I can’t sleep, there is so much noise. But last summer a lady who was visiting here could not sleep because she missed the noise.
F. There is a great deal in habit. (A pause.) By the way, I said that I had done no work to-day. I forgot to mention that I had accomplished a feat which I never attempted before.
A. What was that?
F. I unharnessed the horse.
A. How did you succeed?
F. I got the harness off, but not very scientifically, I’m afraid, for I heard Mike tell Jerry that that city chap was the curiousest feller he ever see, for he unfastened every buckle that was in the harness, and then left it in a heap on the floor.
A. (smiling). I think that’s a little worse than I should do, for I believe I should endeavor to hang the harness up.