thoughtfully. "I fear they will not pay her the respect that she
calculates upon. Go up, Agatha, and say I wish to speak with her."

"No, not I; I must be off, for it is dark already."

"And where are you going, then?"

"To Gossip Allwood's. It's a good mile, and I have to carry my
things."

"Well, Agatha, if you'll take me up to the old lady, I'll carry your
things for you."

Agatha consented, and as soon as she had taken up the lamp, for it was
now quite dark, Jacob was once more introduced.

"I wish, madam," said Jacob, "you would be persuaded to leave the
house for this night."

"Jacob Armitage, leave this house I will not, if it were filled with
troopers; I have said so."

"But, madam--"

"No more, sir; you are too forward," replied the old lady, haughtily.

"But, madam--"

"Leave my presence, Jacob Armitage, and never appear again. Quit the
room, and send Agatha here."