The pained expression on the girl's face when she realized this change, went to Chester's heart and he could have cried out in explanation.
That evening Lucy found Chester in a corner of the library pretending to read.

There was no escape for him as she approached.

What a sweet creature she was, open-hearted and unafraid! His heart met her half way.
"What is the matter with you, Brother Lawrence ?" she asked.
"There is nothing the matter with me." "Then what have _I_ done ?" She seated herself, and Chester laid his book on the table.

He would be plain and open with this girl.

In the end nothing is gained by mystery and silence.