Judge Trent still looked into space. "Yes," he went on slowly, "move my books to the Mill Farm, leave Hannah the house, but not my address, and begin rising at 4 A.M. for breakfast with Cap'n Lem. Then row out to my pound, take in the fish, and send them to Boston. What retaining fee could compare to the satisfaction of making money that way? Think of the sights and sounds, the peace of mind!" "Yes," said John, "but consider the obstacles." "There wouldn't be any. I'd leave the good will of the office to you." "I'm very grateful, but you forget. What would any well-regulated fish say to afternoon dress at 4 A.M., and wouldn't the wind blow your hat off?" "John, you're a frivolous youth," responded the judge thoughtfully; "but," in a warmer tone, "there are some things you do very well. I"--still more warmly--"I have a little commission for you this afternoon." Dunham looked up suspiciously. "It happens very nicely that you don't wish to go to Boston to-day. I think it is due Miss Lacey that she should receive news of her niece's welfare. She knows I've been up there and"-- "Yes, she does know it," interrupted John with emphasis. "She is waiting with great eagerness to hear your report." "Precisely," returned the judge mildly. "Now I'll tell you all about it." "Why do you tell me?" inquired Dunham firmly. "How can you tell Miss Lacey if I don't?" "I'm not going to tell her." "Why not? You've been there once." "My dear Judge Trent," began John impressively, "I was late in coming to it, I know; but I have lately been turning my talents to minding my own business"-- "Which is mine," put in Judge Trent. "It's what I engaged you for." "Well and good, but not to attend to your pleasures," retorted John, with a grin; "your family and domestic affairs. You will naturally visit Miss Lacey this afternoon. You couldn't do less." The judge scowled. "I might call her up on the 'phone," he said gloomily. "You might," returned John, "if you could send her a mind wave which would draw her to the corner grocery. I have had one appointment made by postcard, to speak to her at the corner grocery." "Call it up, then, and ask them to send for her," commanded the judge curtly. "Certainly, if you say so," responded Dunham, "but don't you think if she got you on the wire from there, her conversation might be too entertaining and instructive to the listeners? Her methods at the 'phone are--unusual. The day we talked I heard her distinctly through the window as well as over the wire." Judge Trent groaned. "I haven't crossed her threshold in ten years, but I suppose I shall have to do it if you're going to be so confoundedly obstinate and disobliging." "Certainly," returned Dunham smoothly. "It's time such unneighborly habits were broken up. And say, Judge, ask her to feel round and find out if Miss Derwent doesn't want to see me at her island this summer."