But the mood was too unusual
to last; presently he shook his head, and walked on towards
Pardon's farm-house.
Ann wore a smart gingham dress, and her first exclamation was:
"Why, Jake! how nice you look. And so you know all about it, too?"
"About what?"
"I see you don't," said she. "I was too fast; but it makes no
difference. I know you are willing to lend me a helping hand."
"Oh, to be sure," Jacob answered.
"And not mind a little company?"
Jacob's face suddenly clouded; but he said, though with an effort:
"No--not much--if I can be of any help."
"It's rather a joke, after all," Ann Pardon continued, speaking
rapidly; "they meant a surprise, a few of the young people; but
sister Becky found a way to send me word, or I might have been
caught like Meribah Johnson last week, in the middle of my work;
eight or ten, she said, but more may drop in: and it's moonlight
and warm, so they'll be mostly under the trees; and Robert won't be
home till late, and I DO want help in carrying chairs, and
getting up some ice, and handing around; and, though I know
you don't care for merry makings, you CAN help me out, you see--
"
Here she paused.
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