WYLDER'S HAJVI).
131
and stepped to the ground. It was very dark under those
great trees. He held her hand a little harder than was
his wont.
"All quite well, ever since. You are not very tired,
are you? I'm afraid it will be necessary for you to walk
to 'Redman's Farm,' dear Radie— but it is hardly a
mile, I think — for, you see, the fellow must not know
who you are; and I must go back with him, for I have
not been very well — indeed I've been, I may say, very
ill — and I told that fellow, Larkin, who has his eyes
about lain, and would wonder what kept me out so late,
that I would run down to some of the places near for a
change, and sleep a night there; and that's the reason,
dear Radie, I can walk only a short way with you; but
you are not afraid to walk a part of the way home with-
out me? You are so sensible, and you have been, really,
so very kind, I assure you I appreciate it, Radie — I do,
indeed; and I'm very grateful — I am; upon my word."
Rachel answered with a heavy sigh.
CAAPTER XXIII.
HOW RACHEL SLEPT THAT NIGHT IN REDMAN'S FARM.
"Allow me — pray do," and he took her little bag
from her hand. I hope you are not very tired, darling;
you've been so very good; and your not afraid — you
know the place is so quiet — of the little walk by your-
self. Take my arm; I'll go as far as I can, but it is
very late you know — and you are sure you are not
afraid?"