Since the previous day, when he had that talk with her in Lion Kloof, Jess had assumed a clearer and more definite interest in his eyes.

Before that she was an enigma; now he had guessed enough about her to make him anxious to know more.

Indeed, he had not perhaps realised how strong and definite his interest was till he heard that she was going away for a long period.

Suddenly it struck him that the farm would be very dull without this very fascinating woman moving about the place in her silent, resolute way.

Bessie was, no doubt, delightful and charming to look on, but she had not her sister's brains and originality; and John Niel was sufficiently above the ordinary run to thoroughly appreciate intellect and originality in a woman, instead of standing aghast at it.