a quarter if it’s a step! I never heard of anything so—so——!”

Miss India broke off and turned to the elderly negro, who had arrived hurriedly on the scene.

“Uncle Ran, carry Mr. Winthrop up to the West Chamber and help him to retire.”

“My dear lady,” Winthrop protested.[82] “I am quite able to walk. Besides, I have no intention of burdening you with——”

[82]

“Uncle Ran!”

“Yes’m.”

“You heard what I said?”

“Yes’m.”

Uncle Randall stooped over the chair.

“Jes’ you put yo’ ahms roun’ my neck, sir, an’ I’ll tote you mighty cahful an’ comfable, sir.”

“But, really, I’d rather walk,” protested Winthrop. “And with your permission, Miss—Miss Wayne, I’ll return to the village until——”

[83]

[83]

“Uncle Ran!”

“Yes, Miss Indy, ma’am, I heahs you. Hol’ on tight, sir.”

And in this ignoble fashion Winthrop took possession of Waynewood.

[84]

[84]

V.

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