Startled at these words, I inquired at what hour Isopel had left, and whither she was gone, and was told that she had left the dingle, with her cart, about two hours after I departed; but where she was gone she, the girl, did not know.

I then asked whether she had left no message, and the girl replied that she had left none, but had merely given directions about the kettle and fire, putting, at the same time, six-pence into her hand.

"Very strange," thought I; then dismissing the gypsy girl I sat down by the fire.

I had no wish for tea, but sat looking on the embers, wondering what could be the motive of the sudden departure of Isopel.

"Does she mean to return ?" thought I to myself.