"Thank you, Miss Dexie, for your confidence. Now, let the understanding be
mutual. Will you give me the privilege you have so long denied me of being
your friend and protector _pro tem._, as it were? Neither you nor I have
anyone here to claim our society, and I get very tired of my own company; I
would like to have one special lady friend. Will you not hereafter accept
my company without that inward protest which I always feel you have for
me?"
"You are very kind, Mr. Traverse, but I would prefer matters as they are. I
do not mind going about alone in the least."
"Oh! I know that, Miss Independence, but I mind it; so say that I may
occupy the place of the absent friend, to some extent at least. I'll write
to him and demand permission, if you object," and he laughed pleasantly as
he took her hand a moment in his own.
Just then the sound of footsteps warned them that their interview was over,
and Guy rose to his feet and stood by the window as the rest entered the
room.
"Hello, Traverse! we missed you in the supper-room," and Fenerty came over
to his side. "Have you found all your persuasions in vain, Miss Dexie?"
pointing to the untasted repast on the tray.
Pages:
483
484
485
486
487
488
489
490
491
492
493
494
495
496
497
498
499
500
501
502
503
504
505
506
507