He stepped to her and said with an almost boyish simplicity: "You are very tired; let me carry you--grandmother." He could hear Sir William gasp a little as he laid a quick warm hand on hers that held the cane.

She looked at him gravely, sadly, and then said: "I will take your arm, if you please." He took the cane, and she put a hand towards him.

He ran his strong arm around her waist with a little humouring laugh, her hand rested on his shoulder, and he timed his step to hers.

Sir William was in an eddy of wonder--a strong head was "mazed." He had looked for a different reception of this uncommon kinsman.

How quickly had the new-comer conquered himself! And yet he had a slight strangeness of accent--not American, but something which seemed unusual.