Starting at the top of the sampler, this is stem stitch as often seen illustrated. The thread stays on the same line, but comes back only a little ways. In this example, it is exactly half way. This method is frequently seen in embroidery examples, usually with an even greater distance between the first long stitch and the second (smaller) back stitch (see illustration at end of article).

As shown by Mary Thomas in her Dictionary of Embroidery Stitches, 1935 edition, the picture and description do not specifically "say" to go back into the same hole, but implies it. The later reprinted edition graphic shows a non-specific distance for the needle to travel back on the same line and implies a little more than half way.

The illustration above is from the 1935 edition of Mary Thomas's Dictionary of Embroidery Stitches

An example of embroidery with the stem stitch having only a slight back stitch. Notice the jagged appearance of the stem.

This does not mean inferior. It is simply a type of embroidery. This illustration is done in a chunkier style which is worked with several strands of floss.