“Why, thou dear creature!” cried Peggy in delight. “It seems just as though thee knew the way.”
She dismounted, and with the bridle over her arm approached the cabin almost gaily, so greatly relieved was she at finding a shelter. A woman came to the door in answer to her knock, and opened it part way.
“What do you want?” she asked harshly.
“A lodging for the night, friend,” answered the maiden, surprised by this reception, for the people were usually hospitable and friendly.
“How many air you?” was the next question.
“Myself alone, friend,” replied Peggy, more and more amazed. “I wish food and a stable for my pony also. I will pay thee for it,” she added with a sudden remembrance of the money that Henry Egan had given her.
“Well, come in.” The door was opened, and the woman regarded her curiously as she entered. It was but a one-room hut, and a boy of twelve appeared to be its only occupant aside from the woman. He rose as the girl entered, and went out to attend the horse.
“Do you want something to eat?” asked the woman ungraciously.
“If thee pleases,” answered Peggy, ill at ease at so much surliness. The woman placed food before her, and watched her while she ate.
“Where air you all going?” she asked presently.