“I’ve heard strange tales o’ husbands in my time,” observed the widow in a lowered voice. “They say that when the saints were upon the earth devils used to take husbands’ forms o’ nights, and get poor women into all sorts of trouble. But I don’t know why that should come into my head, for it is only a tale… What a wind and rain it is to-night! Well—don’t be in a hurry to alter things, my dear. Think it over.”
“No, no! I’ve screwed my weak soul up to treating him more courteously—and it must be now—at once—before I break down!”
“I don’t think you ought to force your nature. No woman ought to be expected to.”
“It is my duty. I will drink my cup to the dregs!”
Half an hour later when Mrs. Edlin put on her bonnet and shawl to leave, Sue seemed to be seized with vague terror.
“No—no—don’t go, Mrs. Edlin,” she implored, her eyes enlarged, and with a quick nervous look over her shoulder.
“But it is bedtime, child.”
“Yes, but—there’s the little spare room—my room that was. It is quite ready. Please stay, Mrs. Edlin!—I shall want you in the morning.”
“Oh well—I don’t mind, if you wish. Nothing will happen to my four old walls, whether I be there or no.”
She then fastened up the doors, and they ascended the stairs together.