Then she heard a chair jar on the flags and glanced at Railton, who leaned forward.
"Weel ?" he said.

"Canna you speak?
Is neabody coming yet ?" Lucy threw another glance up the dale and her heart beat.

An indistinct row of small dark objects moved along the path, with two tall figures behind.
"Kit's coming down the beck; he's brought the Herdwicks!" she cried.
"Canny lad!" said Railton, and leaning back limply, wiped his face.
His forehead was wet with sweat, for he was weak and the suspense had been keen.
The sheep vanished behind a wall, and Lucy began to put fresh food on the table.

Mrs.Railton hung a kettle on a hook above the fire, and then turned with a start as a girl came into the porch.
"Miss Osborn!" she exclaimed.
Grace advanced calmly, although there was some color in her face, because she knew the others were surprised that she had come.
"Is Mr.Hayes here ?" she asked.
"Mayhappen he's at the pens," Lucy replied.

"I thought I heard his car." "Then I missed him at the cross-roads," said Grace.