It is a marvellous sharpener of the facts.
I knew, of course, just how these people of the cottage would ordinarily regard an intruder whose bag and clothing must infallibly class him as a follower of the road.

And so many followers of the road are--well-- As I came nearer, the man and woman stopped rocking, but said nothing.
An old dog that had been sleeping on the top step rose slowly and stood there.
"As I passed your garden," I said, grasping desperately for a way of approach, "I saw your beautiful specimen of the magnolia tree--the one still in blossom.

I myself have tried to grow magnolias--but with small success--and I'm making bold to inquire what variety you are so successful with." It was a shot in the air--but I knew from what I had seen that they must be enthusiastic gardeners.

The man glanced around at the magnolia with evident pride, and was about to answer when the woman rose and with a pleasant, quiet cordiality said: "Won't you step up and have a chair ?" I swung my bag from my shoulder and took the proffered seat.

As I did so I saw, on the table just behind me a number magazines and books--books of unusual sizes and shapes, indicating that they were not mere summer novels.
"They like books!" I said to myself, with a sudden rise of spirits.
"I have tried magnolias, too," said the man, "but this is the only one that has been really successful.