In a few weeks the little neighborhood was duly aroused, and
discussing the state of affairs at Mr. Wyman's. Each one considered
herself called upon to pass judgment upon the daily proceedings.

"It's too ridiculous, right in the face and eyes of honest people,
to see this woman and Mr. Wyman carrying on as they do," said Miss
Gay, a lady of forty years, whose notions of the mingling of the
sexes were of the strictest character.

"Why, how? Do tell us," chimed in her companion, a garrulous old
lady.

"Why, they say that this young woman is going about with Mr. Wyman
all the time. He takes her to ride almost every day, and they have
interminable walks and daily confabs together."

"Well, I should think the child's lessons would come off slim, Miss
Gay."

"O, that's only a subterfuge. They'll be married 'fore one year has
gone by."

"I do not believe Hugh Wyman will ever marry again," said one who
knew his character better than the others.

"Then what can he want of that young woman? No good, depend on
that," and Mrs. Green shook her head as though she had more in it
than she wished at that time to display.