away from his work, to carry a couple of dozen asparagus when an
able-bodied woman is going that way herself!'

Albinia was so tickled that she could hardly check herself, even when
she saw Lucy looking distressed and hurt, and little laughs would
break out every moment as she beheld the young lady keeping aloof, as
if ashamed of her company, turning towards the steep church steps,
willing at least to hide the dreadful sight from the High Street.

Just as they had entered the narrow alley, they heard a hasty tread,
and almost running over them with his long strides, came Mr.
Dusautoy. He brought himself up short, just in time, and exclaimed,
'I beg your pardon--Mrs. Kendal, I believe. Could you be kind enough
to give me a glass of brandy?'

Albinia gave a great start, as well she might.

'I was going to fetch one,' quickly proceeded Mr. Dusautoy, 'but your
house is nearer. A poor man--there--just come home--been on the
tramp for work--quite exhausted--' and he pointed to one of the
cottages.

'I'll fetch it at once,' cried Albinia.

'Thank you,' he said, as they crossed the street. 'This poor fellow
has had nothing all day, has walked from Hadminster--just got home,
sank down quite worn out, and there is nothing in the house but dry
bread. His wife wants something nearly as much as he does.'

In the excitement, Albinia utterly forgot all scruples about