"Don't you kill me!" said Elizabeth impatiently. "Go off."
"To be sure," said Clam as she turned away, — "there ain't much company."
It was very vexing to be disturbed. But just as she was getting quiet again, came the tread of Mrs. Nettley's foot behind her, and Elizabeth knew another colloquy was at hand.
"Are you asleep, Miss Haye?" said the good lady a little timidly.
"No," said Elizabeth lifting her head wearily, — "I wish I were."
"There's dinner got ready for you in the house."
"Let anybody eat it that can. — I can't."
"Wouldn't you be better for taking a little something? I'm afraid you'll give way if you do not."
"I don't care," said Elizabeth. "Let me give way — only let me alone!"
She curled her head down determinately again.