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 t' way. As if there worn't some hot spiced ale all ready for 'em on t' oven top."

As the old women had already seen the hot spiced ale referred to, this was no news to them, but they, nevertheless, manifested much interest in its removal to the table by the fire, and in the spice-bread and cheese which was placed beside it. When each had laid hold of a pint-mug filled with Mally's hot brew, they offered Hepworth their best respects, and wished him a long life.

"And if I might mak' so bold," said Nanny, "and I nursed you, mestur, when you was an infant in arms, I might say 'at I hope you'll be a wed man come next Thomas's Day."

"That's an important matter, Nanny," said Hepworth. "Why do you wish it?"

"Naay," said Nanny, "I ha' no opinion o' single men—saving your presence. I like to see a man wi' a wife and a houseful of bairns—that's summut like. Lord bless ye, that's what the good Book says. I went to