ss, whom he
had had the impertinence to speak of as "Eunice."

But her reflection came too late. Miss Maitland was already descending
the wide stairs, and had paused at the half-way landing, to observe who
was this latest visitor of the many who had called to ask for Moses.
Called, also, it may be, to learn something further concerning the
interesting "treasure."

But none save this gentleman had ventured to speak to her of what was,
in reality, her own affair, and she had not encouraged inquirers to
remain. Privacy had never seemed so desirable to her as on that fateful
morning nor so difficult to maintain; and though there was no rudeness,
her neighbors went away with the feeling that:

"Eunice Maitland's just as proud and reserved as ever. Moses' trouble
and her own great fortune don't make a bit of difference, and she makes
you feel, without saying a word, that your room is better than your
company; and that she'll keep her own counsel in this matter as she has
always done in smaller ones."

"Good afternoon, Miss Eunice! Accept my hearty congratulations!" cried
Squire Pettijohn, pushing eagerly forward to the foot of the stairs, and
bowing to her descending.

"Good afternoon, Squire Pettijohn. You are very kind to come and inquire
for my poor friend, Mr. Jones. I am glad to tell you that the doctor
says he will do very well, but sorry to add that he will be a prisoner
indoors for a long time. Is Mrs. Pettijohn quite well?"

So speaking, and with the manner of one who has expected but one kind of
interest in affairs at The Maples, yet knowing perfectly well that the
Squire would never have troubled himself about a "hired man's"
misfortunes, Aunt Eunice walked with her visitor toward the door. She
was puzzled by his presence, but did not enjoy it, and was herself going
just then to read the _Weekly Journal_ to her injured helper. She did
not take the hint given by the Squire's pause beside the sitting-room
door, and moved gently forward to the outer entrance, as if to terminate
the interview.

"Make my regards to your good wife, Squire, and thank her for sending to
inquire. Moses is much touched and gratified by the good-will of his
neighbors, and has had many calls already. But doctor says he should
see nobody except ourselves for the present. Good afternoon."

They had now reached the doorway and Susanna stood at one side, keenly
observant of the other two, and suddenly breaking into their talk with
the ex