Among those who arrived that morning from the nether lands was Jasper Cobb. He came in due formality of traveling as was his wont. He had his valet, who had his hat boxes and suit cases and trunks. He had his cane, his pipe and his et cetera. He was surprised, of course, but delighted, naturally, to see Edith and Star sitting on the wide veranda, as he jauntily floated up to them after disposing of his valet and other personal things. "Well, well! if this isn't a surprise to shock your grandmother and throw your granddaddy into hysterics!" he exclaimed, coming up to them, making a bow that almost threw them into the titters, over its profound ridiculousness. "Why, when did you come here?" he asked, as if he had not known beforehand. "We have been here for two weeks," answered Edith, respectfully, although she abhorred him. "You certainly look better, Miss Jarney; you, too, Miss Barton," he said, with a protracted smile of the wheedling variety. "This rarefied atmosphere, away from the Pittsburgh smoke, appears to agree with you two, charmingly." "It does very well; very well," said Edith, disinclined to be friendly. "I hope we may see each other often, Miss Jarney--and Miss Barton," he continued, insinuatingly. "If you two have not dined I should deem it a favor to have your company." "Thank you; we have already dined," responded Edith. "If you will excuse me, then, I will perform that necessary duty myself," he returned. After a sweeping bow and another wheedling smile that he might as well have kept to himself, he left them. "I do hope we will not be bored to death by that young man," said Edith. "What will we do, Edith?" asked Star. "If we remain here and he remains here, it will be rather awkward to get rid of him." "Oh, we will show him what respect we can without losing our own self-respect," said Edith. "I wonder what brought him here?" "Pursuing you, I suppose, Edith." "He will have his trouble for naught, Star," replied Edith, with a toss of her head. "I should think he would know enough to comprehend a few hints," said Star. "Some people don't, you know, Star," said Edith, rising and drawing the mantle closer about her shoulders. "Let us go for a walk down the mountain road, so we will not be bothered with him, at least for awhile."