Though not outwardly so demonstrative, Aunt Rachel also seemed to enjoy the expedition.

The captain, though blunt, was attentive, and it was something new to her to have such an escort.
It was observed that Miss Harding was much less gloomy than usual during the remainder of the day.

It might be that the captain's cheerfulness was contagious.

For a stranger, Aunt Rachel certainly conversed with him with a freedom remarkable for her.
"I never saw Rachel so cheerful," remarked Mrs.Harding to her husband that evening after they had retired.

"She hasn't once spoken of life being a vale of tears to-day." "It's the captain," said her husband.