Remarkably tall, yet perfectly proportioned, the roughest backwoodsman might have envied his apparent physical strength; polished in manner to a degree which just, and only just, escaped effeminacy, the most spoiled beauty might have been proud of his homage.

At present, however, he stood lazily enough, smiling a little at his hostess' vivacity, exchanging a word or two with her husband, or following the direction of her eyes along the road.

At last a cloud of dust appeared.

"Here they are, I believe," cried Mrs.
Bellairs.

"Ah! Maurice, I ought to have sent you, two girls never are to be trusted." Mr.Percy turned round.