I did think it was a natural one and reason enough, but I guess THAT was a mistake.

It looks as if 'twas." She made a move to rise, but he leaned forward and detained her.
"There! there!" he said.

"Set still, set still.

So you're Abner Barnes' niece ?" "My soul! I've told you so three times." "Abner's niece! I want to know!" "Well, I should think you might know by this time.

Now about that mortgage." "Hey?
Oh, yes--yes! You want a mortgage on Abner's place over to East Wellmouth.