Читать книгу Susan Spray онлайн

96 страница из 108

Unfortunately a chapel on a week-day is rather like a box, the key of which has been lost. There was no way of getting in, nor of finding out the names of those who worshipped there. She decided to ask one of the busy crowd on the pavements, and at the same time became conscious o£ a man standing close by and watching her and the children.

He was short and thick-set, well-dressed in broadcloth and leggings, apparently a farmer. His face was round and freshly coloured, clean-shaved except for a frill of gingery whiskers. She thought that he looked kind.

"Sir," she asked, "can you tell us the names of any Colgate Brethren around here."

It seemed like divine revelation when he answered:

"I'm one myself. That's why I was watching you. What are you doing?"

"We've come a gurt way, and we've no more food. I thought maybe the Brethren 'ud help us."

"Are you Colgates?"

"Surelye, sir—Colgates from Copthorne."

"I didn't know there was any thereabouts. What's your name?"

"Susan Spray, sir."

"And are these your brothers and sisters?"