“I think, under all the circumstances, their acquaintance will bear watching. Two persons so utterly dissimilar, and, so far as superficial observation goes, so entirely unsuited to each other, are quite likely to drift into marriage unless diverted by watchful philanthropists.” “Nonsense!” returned Salemina brusquely. “You think because you are under the spell of the tender passion yourself that other people are in constant danger. Francesca detests him.” “Who told you so?” “She herself,” triumphantly. “Salemina,” I said pityingly, “I have always believed you a spinster from choice; don't lead me to think that you have never had any experience in these matters! The Reverend Ronald has also intimated to me as plainly as he dared that he cannot bear the sight of Francesca. What do I gather from this statement? The general conclusion that if it be true, it is curious that he looks at her incessantly.” “Francesca would never live in Scotland,” remarked Salemina feebly. “Not unless she were asked, of course,” I replied. “He would never ask her.” “Not unless he thought he had a chance of an affirmative answer.” “Her father would never allow it.” “Her father allows what she permits him to allow. You know that perfectly well.” “What shall I do about it, then?” “Consult me.” “What shall WE do about it?” “Let Nature have her own way.” “I don't believe in Nature.” “Don't be profane, Salemina, and don't be unromantic, which is worse; but if you insist, trust in Providence.” “I would rather trust Francesca's hard heart.” “The hardest hearts melt if sufficient heat be applied. Did I take you to Newhaven and read you Christie Johnstone on the beach for nought? Don't you remember Charles Reade said that the Scotch are icebergs, with volcanoes underneath; thaw the Scotch ice, which is very cold, and you shall get to the Scotch fire, warmer than any sun of Italy or Spain. I think Mr. Macdonald is a volcano.” “I wish he were extinct,” said Salemina petulantly; “and I wish you wouldn't make me nervous.” “If you had any faculty of premonition, you wouldn't have waited for me to make you nervous.” “Some people are singularly omniscient.” “Others are singularly deficient--” And at this moment Susanna Crum came in to announce Miss Jean Dalziel, who had come to see sights with us.