At breakfast a note was brought by a boy from Mrs. Goodriche: these were the words of it:
"Dear Mr. Fairchild,
"Since that happy day we spent together, we have been in what Sukey calls a peck of troubles; and, to crown all, last night one of our old chimneys was struck with lightning: part of it fell immediately, but I am thankful to be able to say, that by the care of Providence no one was hurt.
"We are all got into a corner out of the reach of it, should it fall, though it might yet stand for years as it is. I have other things to talk to you about, and was thinking of coming over to you if this accident had not happened. Now I must ask you to come to me; I have sent for
workmen to consult about this chimney, but I shall have more confidence if you are here."
"I must be off immediately after breakfast," said Mr. Fairchild; and he did set off, in his little carriage, as soon as he had set Henry to work.
Mr. Fairchild saw the top of the ragged chimney over the trees in the garden. As soon as he came up to the gate, he himself put up the horse and carriage, for he could see no man about, and then went in at the back door, expecting to find Mrs. Goodriche at that end of the house farthest from the chimney.
Sukey was the first person he saw.
"Oh, sir," she said, "I am so glad you are come! We shall be all right now."
"Nay," said Mr. Fairchild, jestingly, "I hope you don't expect me to repair the chimney."