Lana Helmer I have known intimately since we were children." "Then why is it not better to present me to her first--if you know her so very well ?" "Mrs.Bleecker is older." "Oh! Is this Miss Helmer then so young ?" "Your age." "Oh! My age....

And pretty ?" "The world thinks so." "Oh! And what do you think, Euan ?" "Yes, she is pretty," said I carelessly.
There was a long silence.

I sat there, my knees gathered in my arms, staring up at the stars.
Then, faintly came her voice: "Good-night, Euan." I rose, laid hold of the willow bush that scraped my shoulders, felt over it until I found the dangling broken branch; stepped forward, groping, until I touched the next broken branch.

Then, knowing I was on my trail, I turned around and called back softly through the darkness: "Good-night, little Lois!" "Good-night, and sweet dreams, Euan.

I will be dressed and waiting for you in the morning to go to Mrs.Bleecker, or to receive her as you and she think fitting....