"
Samuel, however, with all his virtues, weren't much a man for a joke, and
at another time this speech would have earned a rebuke from him in the
name of law and order. But afore Cicely, and in sound of her voice, he
felt amazed to find law and order sink into the background for a minute,
though for a minute only, of course.
He explained he was on duty and mustn't have no refreshment just then; but
such is the power of passion that he loitered a full sixty seconds after
he'd set down Cicely's basket.
"You come in and taste my sloe gin another day, then," said Green, who
knew Samuel was in the other camp with the gamekeepers and liked the
thought of pulling his leg; but the surprise was Chawner's then, for
instead of a short answer, Samuel thanked him as mild as milk, vowed that
to his way of thinking sloe gin couldn't be beat and said he'd certainly
accept the invitation and come for a drop. Nor did he leave it doubtful
when he would come. He acted very crafty indeed and invited Chawner to
name the time and hour; on hearing which the girl showed so much interest
as he did himself and fixed the time and hour for him.
"Fetch in to tea o' Sunday, Mr. Borlase," she said. "I make father put on
his black 'Sundays' of an afternoon, and I'll see he's to home."
Then Sam went his way, and when he was gone Cicely praised him for a very
understanding chap.
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