Again he lifted the knocker, and sounded a noisy summons.

It was in reality a summons to surrender.
The door was opened again by Mrs.Frost, who invited the squire to enter.

He did so, wondering at her apparent composure.
"They can't have raised the money," thought he apprehensively.

"No, I am sure the notice was too short." Frank was in the room, but Squire Haynes did not deign to notice him, nor did Frank choose to make advances.

Mrs.Frost spoke upon indifferent subjects, being determined to force Squire Haynes to broach himself the business that had brought him to the farm.
Finally, clearing his throat, he said: "Well, madam, are you prepared to cancel the mortgage which I hold upon your husband's farm ?" "I hope," said Mrs.Frost, "you will give us time.