"'I wish for a lodging to-night,' said Crosby—'if it may be'—
"'I don't know, sir,' replied the girl—'I'll go and ask mother.'
"The girl soon reappeared, and bade him walk in. On reaching the kitchen, he made known his wishes, to the mistress of the family.
"'Lodgings! sir—did you ask for lodgings? we don't keep lodgings here, sir.'
"'I suppose not, madam,' said Crosby, in a kind manner—'but I am quite fatigued, and thought, perhaps, you would let me stay till morning.'
"'I don't know but what you may. The man is gone from home. There's such work now-a-days, that a body don't know nothing what to say or do—pray, what do you carry in that huge pack?'
"'In this pack, madam? only some shoemaker's tools. I am a shoemaker, madam—perhaps, you have some work for me to do? I'll take it off with your leave.'
"'Well, do as you please. Our John wants a pair of shoes; and perhaps the man of the house will give you the job when he comes home.'
"'I shall be glad to do it,' said Crosby. 'Madam, have you heard the news?'
"'What news?'