Take my advice now--it is honest and well meant--and do not linger long in the dangerous air of Boston." Thanking her for her solicitude as to his health, Master Raymond shook her thin hand and departed.

But all the ride back to Joseph Putnam's, he was thinking over those last words.
What was their real meaning?
What could they mean but this?
"You are going to Boston to try to save Dulcibel Burton.

I do not want to hurt you; but I may be compelled to do it.

Leave Boston as soon as you can, and spare me the necessity that may arise of denouncing you also.

Joseph Putnam, whom I hate, but whose person and household I am for family reasons compelled to respect, when you are in Boston is no longer your protector.