"But that's what I don't know," said Mrs Shingle; "she won't talk about it. You know as well as I do that it's all come on since that night at the old home." "Taboo! taboo!" muttered Dick. "That letter was the worst part of it." "What, the one that come from Tom next day?" "Yes," said Mrs Shingle; "it must have been very bitter and angry, for she turned red, and then white, and ended by crumpling it up and throwing it into the fire." "And Tom's never tried to come nigh her since?" said Dick, musing. "No." "Well, p'r'aps that's pride," said Dick. "He's waiting to be asked. I don't think the less of him for that." "No," said Mrs Shingle, "Jessie won't talk about it; but it's my belief that Tom must have seen Fred come to see her that night, and he told her so, and threw her off, and she's been fretting and wearing away ever since." "Fred's often hanging about, though. Does she see him, do you think?" "Oh no," said Mrs Shingle, "I don't think she does. Heigho! I don't know how it's to end. She's getting as thin as thin, and hardly eats a bit; and she's always watching and listening in a weary, wretched way, that makes me wish she was married." "Well, that's it," cried Dick; "let's get her married." "Are you in such a hurry to part with her, then?" said Mrs Shingle bitterly. "Part with her? Not I! I'm not going to part with her. Whoever it is as has her will have to come and live here." "Don't talk nonsense. Nice thing, for a young couple to be always having their father and mother in the house! Suppose whoever it is should want to bring his too?" "Well, that would be awkward," said Dick, rubbing his nose. "Hush! here she is." For Jessie came in just then, very gently, and her aspect justified Mrs Shingle's words. She looked thin and wasted, while a sad, weary smile played about her lips, as if she were in constant pain and trying to hide it from those around. "Why, Jessie, my gal," said Dick, "where have you been all this long time? Come along. I've got to leave soon-- 11:20 sharp," he continued, glancing at his watch, and shutting it with a loud snap as Mrs Shingle rose and left the room. Jessie went to his side, and kissed him, staying leaning upon his shoulder; but soon after walked away to the window and looked out. "That's what she's always doing," muttered Dick--"always looking for some one as never comes. It must be about one of those two fellows. Jessie!" he cried. "Yes, father." "I met Fred Fraser yesterday." She started round, and looked at him with dilated eyes. "And Tom Fraser, his brother, the day before." Her face flushed, and an angry look darted from her eyes as he spoke, but she turned away.