It was not the first time during the last six months that this extraordinary event had occurred, and the curiosity of the Crossing was duly excited.

As Flip had never called personally for the letters or parcels, but had sent one of her wild, irregular scouts or henchmen to bring them, and as she was seldom seen at the Crossing or on the stage road, that curiosity was never satisfied.

The disappointment to the Postmaster--a man past the middle age--partook of a sentimental nature.

He looked at the letters and parcels; he looked at his watch; it was yet early, he could return by noon.

He again examined the addresses; they were in the same handwriting as the previous letters.