'What for dunnot He, my soul? What for dun He give 'em mouths so's they can holla, and not listen at 'em? I listen when Foxy shouts out.'
At this moment Edward saw Abel approaching, swaggering along with the harp. He had never been glad to see him so far; now he was almost affectionate.
'Laws, Ed'ard!' said Abel, straining the affection to breaking-point, 'you'm having a randy, and no mistake! Dancing and all, I s'pose?'
'No. I shall go before the dancing.'
'You won't get our 'Azel to go along of you, then. Dance her will, like a leaf in the fall.'
'You'd rather come home with me on your wedding-eve, Hazel, wouldn't you?'
Abel, seeing Hazel's dismayed face, laughed loudly. Edward hated him as only sensitive temperaments can, and was conscience-stricken when he realized the fact.
'Well, Hazel?' he asked gently, and created a situation.
'I dunno,' said Hazel, awkwardly. A depressed silence fell between them; both were so bitterly disappointed. Abel, like an ancient mischievous gnome, went off, calling to Hazel:
'Clear your throat agen the judgin's over!'