Behind the bells was the squire in his sleigh drawn by his fastest stepper, and he was alone, as the deacon was not.

"Of course there's no one to tell us whose fault that was," said Jerry, "and as long as I don't know I shall give him the benefit of the doubt; for a firmer, neater stepper I never rode.

He was a grand stepper, and no doubt was pushed a little during this final journey, as the driver intended, after a short rest, to finish off with the twenty-six miles between this and home.

" "And a light stepper too, ma, for here I amup and dressed, and hungry as a bear."