It was getting dusk now, and the distance between the Gray House and the Rectory was not small.

But no Northbury girl feared to be out alone, and Beatrice walked quickly, and before long reached her destination.
The Rector was in--Beatrice would find him in his study.

The old housekeeper did not dream of conducting Miss Meadowsweet to this apartment.

She smiled at her affectionately, told her she knew the way herself, and left her.
When Beatrice entered the study the Rector got up and took his favorite by both her hands.
"I am glad to see you, my child," he said.

"I was just feeling the slightest _soupcon_ of loneliness, so you have come in opportunely.
Sit down, Bee.