the best in the house was placed at their
disposal with simple courtesy. They were taken to the mills, where they
made a tour of inspection; Jack explaining machinery, looms, shuttles,
and spindles, with an enthusiasm that amazed even himself. There was a
new interest in the thought of having a voice in the direction of that
great engine now so silent, and the work it was to do.

"We shall not use half our looms in the beginning," he said; "but I
hope, before the five years are ended, we shall be doing our utmost."

They all hoped so for his sake. "If any man can make the plan work, he
will," thought Miss McLeod, who liked him better every hour.

Miss Barry and Sylvie came to call on the ladies in the evening.

"I suppose that is Mr. Darcy's sweetheart," Miss Lothrop remarked
afterward. "She is a pretty, enthusiastic little thing, and she takes so
much interest in his affairs. I can just fancy how they will work
together, and the earnest, useful lives they will lead. What butterflies
we are!" looking down at her white helpless hands. "Not you, but the
young women of the day in general. You are a busy bee, and still keep
storing up your honey."

"And sting occasionally," laughed the sharp, bright old lady.

The sale took place the next morning at ten, at the Court House. There
was quite a number of spectators, though the ladies, with Maverick and
Darcy, were in a private office. Hamilton Minor had come up, resolved
that it should not go for less than the mortgage, but desirous of ending
his responsibility. There were but two bids. The auctioneer lingered a
long while on Mr. Hildreth's bid, commenting on the enormous sacrifice,
but he could move no one's interest. It was reluctantly knocked down,
the purchase-money paid, and the deed made out to Miss McLeod.

Then the company's agreement was put in lawful, legal shape. The
managing board of five men were to have sole charge of buying, selling,
and manufacturing. They were to give all their time and ability, to
watch the state of the market, and conduct every thing for the benefit
of the whole corporation. Darcy was to prepare a balance-sheet
semi-annually, showing profit and loss; and this was to be open to the
inspection of the firm.

The parties to the second part, the workmen, were to work ten hours a
day, six days in the week, under the supervision of Hurd and Yardley.
The wages of the men and the salaries of the managers were to be put at
the minimum rate, a