CHAPTER IX: d**k CALLS AT THE SCHOOL
The early days of the year drew on, and Fancy, having spent the holiday weeks at home, returned again to Mellstock.
Every spare minute of the week following her return was used by d**k in accidentally passing the schoolhouse in his journeys about the neighbourhood; but not once did she make herself visible. A handkerchief belonging to her had been providentially found by his mother in clearing the rooms the day after that of the dance; and by much contrivance d**k got it handed over to him, to leave with her at any time he should be near the school after her return. But he delayed taking the extreme measure of calling with it lest, had she really no sentiment of interest in him, it might be regarded as a slightly absurd errand, the reason guessed; a
