"Quite so, Albert; quite so! Is your wife feeling better?"
(Uncle Jacob had seen Mrs. Marlowe riding out the day before, apparently in full health.)
"She is somewhat improved, but still delicate," said Squire Marlowe guardedly. "I am sorry I cannot invite you to dine with us again before you go to the city."
"I should hardly be able to do so, as I go away to-morrow."
"Just so! I will say good-by for you, and that will do just as well."
"That's a load off my mind!" soliloquized the squire, after Uncle Jacob had left him. "I was afraid the old man would squander all his money, and then come upon me for that old loan. I hope he'll keep away from Lakeville in the future."
The next day Uncle Jacob left town. As he quitted the house, he put a sealed envelope into Mary Barton's hand.
"If you are ever in trouble, and cannot communicate with me," he said, "open this envelope. Take good care of it!"
"I will, Uncle Jacob. I will put it away in my trunk."
"Well, good-by, Mary, and God bless you!"