"I am never alone," said the old lady, quietly; "I have nothing to fear; but I am uneasy about you, dear. Mind my words; don't try to go back the way you came; take the other road; it's easier; and stop when you get to Mrs. Van Brunt's; Mr. Van Brunt will take you the rest of the way in his little waggon."
"Do you think it is needful?" said Alice, doubtfully.
"I am sure it is best. Hasten down. Adieu, mon enfant."
They kissed and embraced her, and hurried out.
CHAPTER XIX.
Showing that in certain circumstances white is black.
The clouds hung thick and low; the wind was less than it had been. They took the path Mrs. Vawse had spoken of; it was broader and easier than the other, winding more gently down the mountain; it was sometimes, indeed, travelled by horses, though far too steep for any kind of carriage. Alice and Ellen ran along without giving much heed to anything but their footing down, down running and bounding, hand in hand, till want of breath obliged them to slacken their pace.
"Do you think it will snow soon?" asked Ellen.
"I think it will snow how soon, I cannot tell. Have you had a pleasant afternoon?"
"Oh, very!"