As to social duties, she thought they ought to be attended to, of course, but saw no need to be in a hurry about them; so Ralph, one day, having business in Thorbury, prepared to go in again by himself.

He had been lately riding Mrs.Browning, who was still his only available horse for family use; but she was not very agreeable under the saddle, and he now proposed to take the gig.

He had thought it might be a good idea to take a little drive out of the town, and see if Congo would follow him.

Perhaps Miss Bannister would accompany him, for she was very anxious that the dog should become used to Ralph before leaving his present home; and her presence would help very much in teaching the animal to follow.
But although Miriam declined to go with her brother, she took much interest in his expedition, and came out to the barn to see him harness Mrs.Browning.
"Are you going to Dora Bannister's again ?" she asked.
"Yes," said Ralph; "at least I think I shall stop in to see the dog.

You know the oftener I do that, the better." "I think it is a shame," said Miriam, "that you should be driving to town alone, when there are other people who wish so much to go, and you have no use at all for that empty seat." "Who wants to go ?" asked Ralph, quickly.
"Cicely Drane does.