Barney had meant to inform her that his behavior towards her on the day his mother died had been due to a momentary weakness; that she was to expect nothing further.

She went on to the store and did her errand, then went home.
As she entered the kitchen her mother came through from the front room.

She had been sitting at a window watching for Charlotte to return; she thought Barney might be with her.
"Well, you've got home," said she, and it sounded like a question.
"Yes," said Charlotte.

She laid her parcels on the table.

"I guess I'll go to bed," she added.
"Why, it's dreadful early to go to bed, ain't it ?" "Well, I'm tired; I guess I'll go." The candle-light was dim in the room, but Sarah eyed her daughter sharply.