“She probably rode,” whispered Lilith to Polly; “but why didn’t he ride up with her?” “I bet she wouldn’t come!” piped Clementina. “It would be a joke if she left him in the lurch,” smiled Mrs. Daybill. Polly stepped forward to greet the visitor, and Dr. Abbe lifting Dolly in his arms went down the steps, saying, “Here is a young lady who ‘can’t wait to kiss Sardis.’” There was a general laugh, and then Clementina got in her word. “Where’s the new cook?” “She will be here presently,--as soon as I get washed up.” Polly’s heart “went down cellar,” as later she told Lilith. After a little non-essential talk Sardis Merrifield walked over to the Study with Dr. Abbe. Lilith drew Polly inside and thence to the kitchen. “What does it mean?” she began. “Not that the minister--?” “Yes,” frowned Polly. “Every boy who has fried bacon or made coffee at a camp thinks he is an accomplished cook.” She looked round the spotless kitchen over which she and Lilith had spent the greater share of the forenoon, and sighed. If only Benedicta would pop in and save the day! “I’m glad I blacked the stove,” reflected Lilith. “I thought first I’d leave it for the new cook!” “He’ll never know whether it is black or red,” scorned Polly. “In some respects men are all alike.” Nevertheless, the man that walked into the kitchen, unannounced, a few moments later did look different from any other that Polly had ever known. Very trim he was in his short white coat, a chef’s cap hiding his thick brown hair. His face wore the expression of one in love with his rôle. “At your service, mademoiselle,” he said with a low bow. Lilith peeped in from the back piazza, then swiftly stole away with a silent chuckle. It was too funny! Could he really cook? “If you will allow me,” began the newcomer, “I should like to look round a bit, so that I may learn where things are. Or perhaps you will be good enough to show me.” “Now, Mr. Merrifield,” began Polly, “you needn’t think you must do this to help out. We can get along. The truth is, Miss Brooks and I don’t know much about cooking, and we were afraid you wouldn’t like it very well; but if you can put up with--” His hand stayed her apologies. “Miss Dudley,” he said, “I have come here to cook, and I don’t like to give up a job until I have had a chance at it. Then if I don’t suit you, I will get out as quick and gracefully as I can.” He looked at her with mischievous eyes. She laughed. “I suppose I’ll have to let you,” she replied, “and Lilith and I will help all we can.” “I think I shall not need any help,” he smiled. “I will agree to take care of the kitchen.” “All but the dishes, then,” yielded Polly. “I always wash my own dishes,” he returned, with eyes that twinkled. “You talk as if you were used to kitchen work,” laughed Polly. “I am.” The girl looked incredulous, but said nothing. At once she began opening doors of pantry and storeroom and cupboards.