I, too, love all that is rare and noble, however in myself I fall below such ideals.

Say that you admit me as something more than the friend of the everyday world! Look for once straight into my eyes and know me!' There was no doubtful ring in this; Annabel felt the chords of her being smitten to music.

She held her hand to him.
'You are my very near friend, and my life is richer for your influence.' 'I may come and see you again before very long, when I have something to tell you ?' 'You know that our house always welcomes you.' He released her hand, and they walked homewards.

The sky was again overcast.

A fresh gust came from the fell-side and bore with it drops of rain.
'We must hasten,' Annabel said, in a changed voice.