That evening Sally was making 'pinners' for the milkers, who were now increased by two, for her mother and herself no longer joined in milking the cows themselves.

But upon the whole there was little change in the household economy, and not much in its appearance, beyond such minor particulars as that the crack over the window, which had been a hundred years coming, was a trifle wider; that the beams were a shade blacker; that the influence of modernism had supplanted the open chimney corner by a grate; that Rebekah, who had worn a cap when she had plenty of hair, had left it off now she had scarce any, because it was reported that caps were not fashionable; and that Sally's face had naturally assumed a more womanly and experienced cast.
Mrs.Hall was actually lifting coals with the tongs, as she had used to do.
'Five years ago this very night, if I am not mistaken--' she said, laying on an ember.
'Not this very night--though 'twas one night this week,' said the correct Sally.
'Well, 'tis near enough.

Five years ago Mr.Darton came to marry you, and my poor boy Phil came home to die.' She sighed.

'Ah, Sally,' she presently said, 'if you had managed well Mr.Darton would have had you, Helena or none.' 'Don't be sentimental about that, mother,' begged Sally.

'I didn't care to manage well in such a case.