He would not have felt quite so confident if he had heard Nancy's soliloquy after his departure.
"Mean old hunks!" she exclaimed. "So he thinks he's gwine to buy old Nancy for five dollars! He's mighty mistaken, I reckon, I won't give up the poor darlings for no such money."
No doubt the ten dollars she had received from Mrs. Kenyon had its effect; but, to do old Nancy justice, she had a good heart, and, fond as she was of money, would not havesold the secret of those who put confidence in her, even if there had been no money paid her for keeping it.
Mrs. Kenyon, hidden in the loft, heard the conversation with anxiety, lest Nancy should yield to the temptation and betray her place of concealment. When the colloquy was over, and Dr. Fox had ridden away, she felt relieved.
"Thank you, Nancy," she said gratefully, peering over the edge. "You are indeed a good friend to me."
"I sent Massa Fox off with a flea in his ear," said Nancy, her portly form shaken by a broad laugh.
"I shall not forget your kindness, Nancy.
"Is Clopatry awake?" asked Nancy.
"Yes," said a smothered voice from the straw. "Is Antony come?"
"Aint seen no gemman of that name, Miss Clopatry."