She should have as many words as she liked, he told her; and took her into his room, and made her sit down.

“ ’Tis concerning Sloppy, sir,” said Betty. “And that’s how I come here by myself. Not wishing him to know what I’m a-going to say to you, I got the start of him early and walked up.”

“You have wonderful energy,” returned Rokesmith. “You are as young as I am.”

Betty Higden gravely shook her head. “I am strong for my time of life, sir, but not young, thank the Lord!”

“Are you thankful for not being young?”

“Yes, sir. If I was young, it would all have to be gone through again, and the end would be a weary way off, don’t you see? But never mind me; ’tis concerning Sloppy.”

“And what about him, Betty?”