Susy left the house. The distance from her mother's shop to the Cravens' cottage was a matter of ten minutes' quick walking. She soon reached her destination, walked up the little path which led to the tiny cottage, and tapped with her fingers on the door. The door was opened for her by old Mrs. Craven. Mrs. Craven was in her Sunday best, and looked a very beautiful and almost aristocratic old lady.
"Do you want my grandchild?" she said, observing Susy's size and dress.
"Yes; is she within?" asked Susy.
"No, dear; she has gone to church. Would you like to wait in for her, or would you rather go and meet her? She has gone to St. James the Less, the church just around the corner; you know it?"
"Yes, I know it," said Susy.
"They'll be coming out now," said Mrs. Craven, looking up at the eight-day clock which stood in the passage. "If you go and stand by the principal entrance, you are safe to see her."
"Thank you," said Susy.
"You are sure you wouldn't rather wait in the house?"
"No, really. Mother expects me back. My name is
Susan Hopkins. My mother keeps the stationer's shop in the High Street."