, I believe he was wrongfully accused. Just
tell Jenkins that; and say that if I hear of him, or any of the
hands, throwing the thing up in the boy's face, I will dismiss them
instantly."

And so Reuben did not know, till long after, that the story of the
killing of the dog was known to anyone at Lewes.

For three years he worked in Mr. Penfold's yard, giving much
satisfaction to his employer by his steadiness and handiness. He
continued his studies of an evening, under the advice of his former
master; who came over with his wife, three or four times each year,
to spend a day with Mrs. Whitney. Reuben was now receiving ten
shillings a week and, although the receipts of the shop failed, he
and his mother were able to live in considerable comfort.

One day, about three years after coming to Lewes, he was returning
to work after dinner when, as he passed a carriage standing in
front of one of the shops, he heard his name pronounced, and the
colour flushed to his cheek as, looking up, he saw Kate Ellison.
Timidly he touched his cap, and would have hurried on, but the girl
called to him.

"Stop a minute, Reuben. I want to speak to you. I am glad I have
met you. I have looked for you, every time I have come to Lewes. I
wanted to tell you that I am sure you did not kill Wolf. I know you
wouldn't have done it. Besides, you know, you told me that you
never told stories; so when I heard that you said you didn't, I was
quite sure about it."

"Thank you, miss," Reuben said gratefully. "I did not kill the dog.
I should never have thought of such a thing, though every one
seemed against me."

"Not every one, Reuben. I didn't think so; and papa has told me,
since, that he did not think so, and that he was afraid that he had
made a mistake."

"I am glad to hear that, miss," Reuben said. "The squire had been
very kind to me, and it has always grieved me, very much, that he
should think me capable of such a thing. I felt angry at the time,
but I have not felt angry since I have thought it over quietly; for
the case seems so strong against me that I don't see how the squire
could have thought otherwise.

"Thank you, miss. I sha'n't forget your kindness," and Reuben went
on with a light heart, just as Mrs. Ellison and her elder daughter
came out from the shop.

"Who were you speaking to, Kate?" she asked, as she took her seat
in the carriage.

"I was talking to Reuben Whitney, mamma. He was passing, so I
called him to tell