Looking up as I drew near- "You have a question to ask of me?" he said.

"Yes; I wish to know whether you have heard of any service I can offer myself to undertake?"

"I found or devised something for you three weeks ago; but as you seemed both useful and happy here- as my sisters had evidently bee attached to you，and your society gave them unusual pleasure- I deemed it inexpedient to break in on your mutual fort till their approaching departure from Marsh End should render yours necessary."

"And they will go in three days now?" I said.