But Elizabeth did not choose to hear; and Clam went off with the note.
Much against her expectations, she found Mr. Winthrop at home and in his room, and his sister not there.
"Mornin', Mr. Winthrop!" said Clam, with more of a courtesy than she ever vouchsafed to her mistress or to any one else whomsoever. He came forward and shook her hand very kindly and made her sit down by the fire. The black girl's eyes followed him, as if, though she didn't say it, it was good to see him again.
"What's the word with you, Clam?"
"'Tain't with me — the word's with you, Mr. Winthrop."
"What is it?"
"I don' know, sir. I've nothin' to do but to bring it."
"How do you do this cold day?"
"I ain't cold," said Clam. "I bethought me to put my cloak on my shoulders. Miss 'Lizabeth wanted me to come off with only my bonnet."
And she produced the note, which Winthrop looked at and laid on the table.