That she was clever and well-informed he soon discovered from her rare remarks; that she could sing like an angel he also knew; but what was the mainspring of her mind--round what axis did it revolve--this was the puzzle.

Clearly enough it was not like most women's, least of all like that of happy, healthy, plain-sailing Bessie.

So curious did he become to fathom these mysteries that he took every opportunity to associate with her, and, when he had time, would even go out with her on her sketching, or rather flower-painting, expeditions.

On these occasions she would sometimes begin to talk, but it was always about books, or England or some intellectual question.

She never spoke of herself.
Yet it soon became evident to John that she liked his society, and missed him when he did not come.