"Which way did he go?" McElwin asked.
"I don't know, exactly, but I think he took the Spring Hill road. He must be going after something particularly fine, for I heard him tell old Josh that he wanted a bottle of the oldest liquor in town, no matter what it costs. But he didn't take it with him, come to recollect. He 'lowed he'd want it this evening when he come back."
McElwin walked straightway to his home. His appearance at that odd hour caused surprise, and his wife, having seen him through the window, came to the door with something of a flurry.
"Is there anything wrong?" she asked, as he stepped into the hall.
"Nothing at all," he answered, hanging up his hat. "Why?"
"Because you are home so early."
"Oh, that's it. I was tired and I thought I'd come home to rest."
She took his arm and they passed into the rear parlor. "Where is Eva?" he asked, sitting down.
"I don't know. I think she's out for a walk. Are you tired?" she asked, standing behind him, with her hands resting on the back of the chair.
"Not now," he said, reaching back and taking her hands. He pressed them against his cheeks. "You always rest me."