The elements of forethought and executive ability, which were so strong in them, and which had enabled them to plan this unusual and unchildish thing, prevented their committing any of the youthful indiscretions which might have betrayed them, through suggesting to outsiders that they were engaged in something more than their everyday amusements and pursuits. If they had exchanged significant glances, which someone might have intercepted, they would have been in danger, even though they had been usually so little observed; if they had been seen in unusual places, or doing unusual things, somebody might have asked questions in these days, because it was the natural result of their new employment that they were thrown more frequently among those working in various capacities on the farm. Men and women were intimate with them in these days who had scarcely noticed their existence or known their names before the days of Meg's work in the dairy and Robin's service under Jones. And it was noticeable that no one worked near them without liking and feeling friendly towards them. They showed such a steady intention of doing their best and most, and such readiness to help others to accomplish their best and most also; and, accordingly, the hands had begun to notice them, and occasionally joined one or other of
