_ She bought a pair of
gloves of the young woman who seemed to occupy her place, paid
for them, and left the shop without speaking to any one else. All
the time, George was standing behind the opposite counter,
staring at her; but, much to her relief, he showed no other sign
of recognition.
Before she went to find Beenie, who was still at Testbridge, in a
cottage of her own, she felt she must think over these things,
and come, if possible, to some conclusion about them. She left
the town, therefore, and walked homeward.
What did it all mean? She knew very well they must look down on
her ten times more than ever, because of the _menial_
position in which she had placed herself, sinking thereby beyond
all pretense to be regarded as their equal. But, if that was what
the man's behavior meant, why was he so studiously--not so much
polite as respectful? That did not use to be Mr. Turnbull's way
whore he looked down upon one. And, then, what did the shadow
preceding this behavior mean? Was there not in it something more
than annoyance at the sight of her? It was with an effort he
dismissed it! She had never seen that look upon him!
Then there was the impression the shop made on her! Was there
anything in that? Somehow it certainly seemed to have a shabby
look! Was it possible anything was wrong or going wrong with the
concern? Her father had always spoken with great respect of Mr.
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