The leader burst into a loud laugh, which was echoed by the others, and, with waving hats, the whole party swept peacefully out through the gate.
"But what does all this mean about YOUR purchasing the land, Mr.Brant ?" said Mrs.Peyton quickly, fixing her eyes intently on Clarence.
A faint color--the useless protest of his truthful blood--came to his cheek.
"The house is YOURS, and yours alone, Mrs.Peyton.The purchase of the sisters' title was a private arrangement between Mr.Peyton and myself, in view of an emergency like this." She did not, however, take her proud, searching eyes from his face, and he was forced to turn away.
"It was SO like dear, good, thoughtful papa," said Susy.

"Why, bless me," in a lower voice, "if that isn't that lying old Jim Hooker standing there by the gate!".