I cannot cook, and neither can I wash, while I have never attended to a sick person in my life." "No," said her father with a trace of embarrassment.

"Still, one understands that it comes naturally to women.

In any case your mere presence would in a fashion be an advantage." Alice Deringham watched him in silence for a few seconds and then smiled again.

"It is somewhat difficult to believe it.

I am sincerely sorry for Mr.Alton, but I can see no reason for intruding at Somasco now." Deringham regarded her steadily, and the girl knew it would be advisable for her to yield.