into it. I wish we could boost the horse in, too, poor thing, but
self-preservation is the first law of nature and if he's liable to
perish it's no reason we should. I'm goin' to get into that house if
such a thing's possible."

"But, Auntie--"

"Don't say another word. I'm responsible for your bein' here this night,
Emily Howes. You wouldn't have come if I hadn't coaxed you into it. And
you shan't die of pneumonia or--or drownin' if I can help it. I'm goin'
to have a look at those doors and windows. Don't be scared. I'll be
back in a jiffy. Goodness me, what a puddle! Well, if you hear me holler
you'll know I'm goin' under for the third time, so come quick. Here
goes!"

Lantern in hand, she splashed out into the wet, windy darkness.




CHAPTER II


Miss Howes, left to share with General Jackson the "sociability" of the
shed, watched that lantern with faint hope and strong anxiety. She
saw it bobbing like a gigantic firefly about the walls of the house,
stopping here and there and then hurrying on. Soon it passed around the
further corner and disappeared altogether. The wind howled, the rain
poured, General Jackson stamped and splashed, and Emily shivered.