"We will go downstairs, Melinda," said Mrs. Larkin. "It will be more comfortable."
"If you have anything to do up here, I beg you won't mind me," said the spinster.
"No, I have nothing that won't wait."
So the two went down into the sitting-room.
"And how is Luke?" asked Miss Sprague, in a tone of friendly interest.
"Very well, thank you."
"Luke was always a great favorite of mine," continued the spinster. "Such a manly boy as he is!"
"He is a great help to me," said Mrs. Larkin.
"No doubt he is. He takes care of the schoolhouse, doesn't he?"
"Yes."