“I mean’bother it!’we must be off as soon as the horse is a bit rested. We have a long journey to take, up and down, and little trotting ground. We have come for Kitty. You must return with us,” looking at Kate. “There has been something”’
“Let me speak,” interrupted Rose, afraid lest Pooke should let out too much. “Kitty, your uncle and aunt have met with a great loss. The stores have been burnt, and Mrs. Zerah does nothing but sob and cry after you.”
“Auntie cry for me?”
“Yes. She will not be at rest till you return.”
“I’ll go at once,” said Kate, flushing with pleasure. “When did this happen?”
“Tuesday night.”
“That is the night we came here. Is my father at the Cellars?”
“I have not seen him. Now, Jan”’Pooke was about to speak. Rose stopped his mouth. “Leave me to speak. You are a blunderer.”
“But I know he passed us going to Coombe,” said Kate.
“Passed you’where?”