It would be even better if, when I return to Winnipeg, you would empower me to buy wheat for you." Maud Barrington looked at him curiously.

"I am a little perplexed as to why you should wish me to." "No doubt," said Winston.

"Still, is there any reason why I should be debarred the usual privilege of taking an interest in my neighbor's affairs ?" "No," said the girl slowly.

"But can you not see that it is out of the question that I should intrust you with this commission ?" Winston's hands closed on the reins, and his face grew a trifle grim as he said, "From the point of view you evidently take, I presume it is." A flush of crimson suffused the girl's cheeks.

"I never meant that, and I can scarcely forgive you for fancying I did.