"The people seem to take to him, and he and the vicar are like brothers, and the work exactly suits him.

Theo is happy too, and that is a great blessing.

And we have made the cottage so pretty that I should like you to see it." Elizabeth's manner had become more natural; she spoke now as though she were sure of Malcolm's interest.

He did not disappoint her.
"I shall certainly call there when I go to the vicarage," he returned, and then he stopped as though to take breath.

"I was very glad when I read your sister's letter, and knew that this new work was to come to you; it must make you so much happier." Malcolm's words were almost magical in their effect, for Elizabeth turned to him with her old eagerness.
"Oh, you always understand," she said gratefully; "that is why it is so easy to talk to you.