The man, in dripping oil-skins and a sou'wester, was Philander Hardy, the local expressman.

Philander turned and spoke to some one in the house behind him.

Jed opened the shop door a crack and listened.
"Yes, ma'am," he heard Hardy say.

"I'll be back for 'em about four o'clock this afternoon.

Rain may let up a little mite by that time, and anyhow, I'll have the covered wagon.