"Yes, on her way to some friends in Northumberland. It was just before the first snow came. I made her as comfortable as I could, and quite enjoyed her visit." "Well, you show no signs of strain; she seemed to think it was all too much for you alone." "I have been, and am, very happy. Of course difficulties have arisen. Cousin Lucy was here when Bob Falkland was taken ill, and I had to get some one to help about the sheep. Hal Cross has been working over at the farm, for poor Eliza almost collapsed. I knew you must be on your way home, so could not write. Bob has had double pneumonia and nearly died. But he is much better now." "I could ill spare Bob. He is my right-hand man," said Justin with concern. Then he looked about the room. "I congratulate you on the changes you have made here," he said. "This was an unlovable room when I left it. I suppose I shall find the house much improved?" "I hope you will." Then a whimsical sparkle came into his eyes. "We didn't do so badly for ourselves, did we? Your Cousin Lucy seems to think that I score most. What do you think?" "I think," said Anstice, rising, "that you had better get ready for dinner. You look as if you need it." She left the room, and after she had gone, Justin drew a long breath. "Malcolm is right. She's a beautiful creature. And I have been a selfish brute. She has done wonders for me and mine. I am in my soul grateful. I wonder if I shall have the courage to tell her so?" Then he too made a move, and went up to his room. Brenda was there unpacking his things. "It seems like old times to see you here," he said to her; "the house is getting shipshape at last, eh?" "Oh, sir, it is a happy house now! I never could have believed anybody could have come and put us all to rights in such a lovely way as Mrs. Holme has. The little girls be changed entirely. And there's been no fear or force used—just love and persuasion." Justin congratulated himself afresh upon the present state of things. He arrived down to dinner in the best of spirits. Anstice faced him from one end of the long table. She had changed her gown and was wearing a soft grey chiffon tea-gown with a bunch of violets on her shoulder. They talked pleasantly together, Anstice giving him all the local news, and he telling of his stormy voyage home. "I really thought at one time, I should never see the shore," he said. "Would you have cared much, I wonder, if the ocean had claimed me?" "Ruffie would," responded Anstice lightly; "he never forgets you in his prayers." "But what would you have felt?" persisted Justin. "Look here," said Anstice, dimpling, but though smiling, speaking firmly, "I must ask you to keep all personalities out of our talk. You are, as you know, almost a complete stranger to me, and I to you. We can be friendly without bringing in any personal touch. I have faithfully kept to my bargain. I expect you to keep to yours." Justin's brows contracted, then he smiled.