'And I thought I would walk across the hills to-day, as it was fine.

I have just called at the inn, and they told me you were out.

I was now on my way homeward.' He hardly listened to this, though he intently gazed at her.

'Christine,' he said, 'one word.

Are you free ?' 'I--I am in a certain sense,' she replied, colouring.
The announcement had a magical effect.