The
unspeakable tears that were shed during those few minutes were
that softened out-pouring of the heart that leaves it eased.
Very, very sorrowful as she was, she went on calmly now, and
stopped no more.
It was getting dark, and a little way from the gate, on the
road, she met Mr. Van Brunt.
"Why, I was beginning to get scared about you," said he. "I
was coming to see where you was. How come you so late?"
Ellen made no answer, and as he now came nearer, and he could
see more distinctly, his tone changed.
"What's the matter?" said he; "you han't been well! what has
happened? what ails you, Ellen?"
In astonishment, and then in alarm, he saw that she was unable
to speak, and anxiously and kindly begged her to let him know
what was the matter, and if he could do anything. Ellen shook
her head.
"Ain't Miss Alice well?" said he; "you han't heerd no bad news
up there on the hill, have you?"
Ellen was not willing to answer this question with yea or nay.
She recovered herself enough to give him Alice's message.
"I'll be sure and go," said he; "but you han't told me yet
what's the matter. Has anything happened?"
"No," said Ellen; "don't ask me — she'll tell you — don't ask
me."
"I guess I'll go up the first thing in the morning then," said
he — "before breakfast."
"No," said Ellen — "better not; perhaps she wouldn't be up so
early.
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