Amy
had brought a great many newspapers folded together so that leaves could
be placed between the pages, and Webb soon noted that his offerings were
kept separate from those of Burt. The latter tried to be impartial in his
labors in behalf of the two girls, bringing Amy bright-hued leaves
instead of ferns, but did not wholly succeed, and sometimes he found
himself alone with Miss Hargrove as they pursued their search a short
distance on some diverging and shaded path. On one of these occasions he
said, "I like to think how beautiful you will make your room this
winter."
"I like to think of it too," she replied. "I shall feel that I have a
part of my pleasant summer always present."
"Has it been a pleasant summer?"
"Yes, the pleasantest I ever enjoyed."
"I should think you would find it exceedingly dull after such brilliant
experiences as that of your yachting excursion."
"Do you find to-day exceedingly dull?"
"But I am used to the quiet country, and a day like this is the
exception."
"I do not imagine you have ever lived a tame life."
"Isn't that about the same as calling me wild?"
"There's no harm in beginning a little in that way. Time sobers one fast
enough."
"You are so favored that I can scarcely imagine life bringing sobering
experiences to you very soon."
"Indeed? Have you forgotten what occurred on these very mountains, at no
great distance? I assure you I never forget it;" and her eyes were
eloquent as she turned them upon him.
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