— 11 —The volatile Susan was in high spirits. Old Mrs. Rue had returned to Blackheath; she had her own dependents and affairs she could not leave long untroubled, and though she would undoubtedly soon return to her son’s house, Susan was never inclined to think of the future. The hag has gone, reflected Mrs. Sacret, to consider her next move.
She rejoiced with Susan and gave her a light account of the new tenant—“an eccentric fellow, who traveled about—a kind of journeyman painter, who wants a place to keep his canvases and paints. We are taking an inventory of my things—a tedious task. I shall go over every morning for an hour or so.”
“Oh, I can take you in the carriage, on my way to the park.”
“No—I’ll walk over. I have several little affairs to settle in the neighborhood.”
“Walk, al
