"Oh, for my part," said Ann, "I have made up my mind not to lament the inevitable, but my husband is like a lost dog and—oh!—heart-hungry for Leila, and worried about that boy's examination—his passing."
"Have I said a word?" said the Squire indignantly. "Pass! Of course, he will pass."
"No one doubts that, James; but you are afraid he will not be near the top."
"You are a witch, Ann. How did you know that?"
"How?" and she laughed. "How long have we been married!"
"Nonsense, Ann! What has that got to do with the matter?"
"Well," said Rivers, a little amused, "we shall know in a day or two. He will pass high."
"Of course," said Penhallow.
Then the talk drifted away to the mills, the village and the farm work. When after dinner Rivers declined to smoke with the Squire, Ann walked with the clergyman down the avenue and said presently, "Dine with us on Monday, Mark, and as often as possible. My husband is really worrying about John."
"And you, dear lady?"