She had known Rollin as a boy, and there had been a time when they had used each other's first name familiarly.

Lately, however, something in Rachel's manner had put an end to that.

She was used to his direct attempts at compliments and was sometimes amused by them.

Today she honestly wished him anywhere else.
"Do you ever think of me, Miss Winslow ?" asked Rollin after a pause.
"Oh, yes, quite often!" said Rachel with a smile.
"Are you thinking of me now ?" "Yes.

That is--yes--I am." "What ?" "Do you want me to be absolutely truthful ?" "Of course." "Then I was thinking that I wished you were not here." Rollin bit his lip and looked gloomy.
"Now look here, Rachel--oh, I know that's forbidden, but I've got to speak some time!--you know how I feel.