"It is the work of Satan," he declared more than once.
He even felt it his duty to call upon Miss Haskell and consult with her upon this awful menace that had entered Ashfield!
"Is there no legal way of putting these young men out of town?" asked Mr. Allworth.
"Not unless you can persuade Mayor Holden they are doing mischief. It's hard to convince a man like him who is so worldly and not in touch with the Lord."
"Yes," spoke up Miss Mary piously, "but we might pray before attempting to convince him."
"You are right," said Miss Harriet with decision, "I'll go to him myself. Though he did insult me in his store, I'll show him I'm not afraid of him!"
So the "trio" prayed, after which Miss Harriet set out upon her dutiful errand. It was in the afternoon, so she would have a chance to see him alone. Sure enough, as she entered the store, there sat the postmaster, proprietor and Mayor, making out his monthly post-office report for Washington. Not a soul was in the store.
Boss Holden looked up with an inward groan. His monthly report was anything but pleasant, and here was Miss Harriet! He could tell by her expression that she had official business to transact!
"What can I do for you?" he asked, with rough kindness.
"I've come, Mayor Holden, to enter a protest against those young Mormon preachers remaining in town!"