whispered Lois. “The only seat within is on the settle, where she sits.”

“Is this the only room?”

“Yes — save for the mouse-loft, where I sleep on last year’s corn-husks. Shall we sit outside? We can speak very low. She will not heed us.”

Pity for all this stark and naked wretchedness left me silent; then, as the lantern’s rays fell on this young girl’s rags, I remembered my packet.

“Yes, we will sit outside. But first, I bring you a little gift — — ”

She looked up quickly and drew back a step, “Oh, but such a little gift, Lois — a nothing — a mere jest of mine which we shall enjoy between us. Take it as I offer it, lightly, and without constraint.”