Adela stood at the table and watched him cross the room. To express a very delicate feeling in terms comparatively broad, she was loth to have him go. She divined, too, that he was loth to go. The knowledge of this feeling on his part, however, affected her composure but slightly. The truth is--we say it with all respect--Adela was an old hand. She was modest, honest and wise; but, as we have said, she had a past--a past of which importunate swains in the guise of morning-callers had been no inconsiderable part; and a great dexterity in what may be called outflanking these gentlemen, was one of her registered accomplishments. Her liveliest emotion at present, therefore, was less one of annoyance at her companion than of surprise at her own gracious impulses, which were yet undeniable. "Am I dreaming?" she asked herself. She looked out of the window, and then back at Ludlow, who stood grasping his hat and stick, contemplating her face. Should she bid him remain? "He is honest," she repeated; "why should not I be honest for once?" "I'm sorry you are in a hurry," she said aloud. "I am in no hurry," he answered. Adela turned her face to the window again, and toward the opposite hills. There was a moment's pause. "I thought you were in a hurry," said Ludlow. Adela gave him her eyes. "My brother would be very glad to have you remain as long as you like. He would expect me to offer you what little hospitality is in my power." "Pray, offer it then." "That's easily done. This is the parlor, and there, beyond the hall, is my brother's study. Perhaps you would like to look at his books and his collections. I know nothing about them, and I should be a very poor guide. But you are welcome to go in and use your discretion in examining what may interest you." "This, I take it, would be but another way of bidding you good-morning." "For the present, yes." "But I hesitate to take such liberties with your brother's treasures as you prescribe." "Prescribe, sir? I prescribe nothing." "But if I decline to penetrate into Mr. Moore's _sanctum_, what alternative remains?" "Really--you must make your own alternative." "I think you mentioned the parlor. Suppose I choose that." "Just as you please. Here are some books, and, if you like, I will bring you some magazines. Can I serve you in any other way? Are you tired by your walk? Would you like a glass of wine?" "Tired by my walk?--not exactly. You are very kind, but I feel no immediate desire for a glass of wine. I think you needn't trouble yourself about the magazines, either. I am in no mood to read." And Ludlow pulled out his watch and compared it with the clock. "I'm afraid your clock is fast." "Yes;" said Adela, "very likely." "Some ten minutes. Well, I suppose I had better be walking;" and, coming toward Adela, he extended his hand. She gave him hers. "It's a day of days for a long, slow ramble," she said.