kman in the
neighbourhood, but I _did_ get things done as I wished! I always do.
We parted on the worst of terms, and I gave them a heart-to-heart talk,
and told them I hoped the Germans would come soon, and drill them into
something like intelligence. It would really be an admirable thing for
the country!"

The Vicar's wife arose with heavy dignity. With a whole parish waiting
on her ministrations she had no time to waste listening to such
nonsense. Unpatriotic into the bargain. Yet despite her disapproval,
there was an indefinable something in the bride's personality which
touched her heart. Perhaps it was the radiant happiness of her mien,
perhaps it was that deep musical note which at times softened her voice,
suggesting depths below the surface; perhaps it was simply her fragility
and charm. Hannah Evans did not trouble to analyse her feelings, she
merely held out a plump gloved hand, and smiled kindly into Grizel's
face.

"I must be running away, Mrs Beverley. My husband is hoping to call
upon you very soon. This afternoon he has a class for confirmation. I
must hurry home to give him tea. He comes in so tired. Good afternoon.
So pleased to welcome you among us! I hope we may often meet."

Her voice rang true, there was a kindliness written on the large, plain
face to which Grizel's heart made instant response. She brought her own
left hand to join the right, clasping the grey glove with an
affectionate pressure, and smiled back the while with a winsome
friendliness. There was silence in the room while the onlookers looked
with critical eyes at the two figures, so typical of youth and age. The
bulky woman, with her jet bonnet and capacious black silk coat, the
nymph-like form of the bride. Every ear listened for the response.

"Oh, you will; indeed you will! I shall often be running over to the
Vicarage to see you."

"That will be very nice." Mrs Evans smiled complacently. "I hope you
will. And I must not forget--I made a note to ask you before I left.--
It would give us great pleasure if you could see your way to take up a
little work. We are sadly in need of helpers. I was going to ask if
you would join our Mothers' Meeting?"

"Oh, give me time!" cried Grizel reproachfully. "Give me time!"

In answer to after reprisals she justified herself by the assertion that
she had spoken on the impulse of the moment, and in absolute good faith.
Besides, what else could the old thing have mea