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 they flung at him as they stood beside the stagecoach, the man walked over to the tavern door and threw it open for Mehitable.

"Pray enter!" he said courteously.

It was just as she passed him that Mehitable saw him start. The light from the taproom had struck full upon her face. Then, as she walked forward into the glare and the noise of the tavern room, she recognized him in turn. It was Lieutenant Freeman in civilian attire! But when she would have whirled around she found the great door had closed behind her and her friend of the Trenton visit had gone without a word.

Bewildered by the singing and the laughter which greeted her through the smoke-laden air, she stood there, a butt for all the village wits and boobies until Mr. Gifford, catching sight of her over his counter, came hurrying toward her.

"What is it, my dear?" he asked kindly.

He drew her into the shelter of the counter end.

"Didst want to see anyone?" he puisued, as Mehitable stood silent.

"Art Mr. Gifford?" inquired the girl unsteadily.

"Aye."

"I thought you were not to return until late."

Mr. Gifford smiled down at her. "My mistress and I came home earlier than we had planned."

"Is my father, Samuel Condit, here?" asked Mehitable hurriedly.

Mr. Gifford shook his head. "Nay, child! Your father left a full half hour ago with Mr. Jones. I know not where he went!"