Dorian walked out to a number of the farms and made enquiries.

At the third house he was met by a pleasant faced, elderly woman who listened attentively to what he said, and then invited him in.

When they were both seated, she asked him his name.

Dorian told her.
"And why are you interested in this girl ?" she continued.
"Has she been here ?" he asked eagerly.
"Never mind.

You answer my question." Dorian explained as much as he thought proper, but the woman still appeared suspicious.
"Are you her brother ?" "No." "Her young man ?" "Not exactly; only a dear friend." "Well, you look all right, but looks are deceivin'." The woman tried to be very severe with him, but somehow she did not succeed very well.