'I cannot take them without you,' said the young man. 'I hold the whip with one hand and the reins with the other. I have not a third wherewith to control a load of wriggling worms.'
'Jump in, Honor,' said Kate; 'sit between me and the driver, to keep the peace.'
The eldest sister packed the children in behind and before, then, without more ado, ascended the seat by Larry, and was followed by Kate, with elastic spring.
'Heigho!' exclaimed the young man, 'I reckon no showman at the Revel has half so fine wares as myself to exhibit.'
'What, the waistcoat?' asked Kate, leaning forward to look in his face.
'No, not the waistcoat,' answered he; 'cutlery, keen and bright.'
'Your wit must have gone through much sharpening.'
'I do not allude to my wit. I mean the pretty wares beside me.'
'But, driver, the wares are not and never will be yours.'
As they drew near Bratton they heard a shout from behind, and turning saw Taverner Langford driving in, with Mrs. Veale beside him, at a rattling pace. Larry drew aside to let them pass; as they went by Taverner looked keenly at Honor, and Mrs. Veale cast her a spiteful glance, then turned to her master and whispered something.