"
"Jackie can read beautifully--Mrs. Lewis 'as taught him."
"Yes, Esther; but there's much besides reading and writing. Think over
what I've said; you're a sensible girl; think it out when you go to bed
to-night."
Next day, seeing William in the street, she went upstairs to ask Miss
Rice's permission to go out. "Could you spare me, miss, for an hour or
so?" was all she said. Miss Rice, who had noticed a man loitering,
replied, "Certainly, Esther."
"You aren't afraid to be left in the house alone, miss? I shan't be far
away."
"No. I am expecting Mr. Alden. I'll let him in, and can make the tea
myself."
Esther ran up the area steps and walked quickly down the street, as if she
were going on an errand. William crossed the road and was soon alongside
of her.
"Don't be so 'ard on a chap," he said. "Just listen to reason."
"I don't want to listen to you; you can't have much to say that I care
for."
Her tone was still stubborn, but he perceived that it contained a change
of humour.
"Come for a little walk, and then, if you don't agree with what I says,
I'll never come after you again."
"You must take me for a fool if you think I'd pay attention to your
promises."
"Esther, hear me out; you're very unforgiving, but if you'd hear me
out----"
"You can speak; no one's preventing you that I can see.
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