"I wish I could have something like a valentine, then," sighed Jesse.
"Wa'al," said Mr. North, "ter-morrow's the day."
But the boy only laughed sadly.
The dark road suddenly seemed to come to an end. Jesse jumped up and looked out. There across the fields lay the gloomy brown farm-house. He felt his heart sink within him as he thanked Mr. North, got down from the wagon, and taking the basket turned in at the gate.
The door was opened with a click, and Miss Holsover stood there holding a candle-light above her head.
"'Sthat you?" she said, in a shrill voice.
"Yes," answered Jesse. His entrance into the house was helped by Miss Holsover giving him a decided push by the shoulders.
Jesse put the basket down, and began at once taking off his coat. In spite of his rest and little sleep, he was shivering with cold and fatigue.
"What's the matter?" said Miss Holsover, giving him another shake by the shoulder.
"I'm wet and tired," said Jesse, timidly.