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 not a pane of glass broken in your windows. Have you had an attack, or do yon expect one?”

“Oh, not at all! I have neither had one nor expect one,” answered Moore, coolly. “I only ordered the bell to be rung because I want two or three neighbours to stay here in the Hollow, while I and a couple or so more go over to Stilbro’ Moor.”

“To Stilbro’ Moor! What to do? To meet the waggons?”

“The waggons are come home an hour ago.”

“Then all’s right. What more would you have?”

“They came home empty, and Joe Scott and Company are left on the moor, and so are the frames. Read that scrawl.”

Mr. Helstone received and perused the document of which the contents have before been given.

“Hum! They’ve only served you as they serve others. But, however, the poor fellows in the ditch will be expecting help with some impatience: this is a wet night for such a berth: I and Tom will go with you; Malone may stay behind and take care of the mill: what is the matter with him? His eyes seem starting out of his head.”

“He has been eating a mutton-chop.”

“Indeed! Peter Augustus, be on your guard. Eat no more mutton-chops to-night. You are left here in command of these premises; an honourable post!”

“Is anybody to stay with me?”

“As many of the present assemblage as choose.