The clatter of hoofs and a halt were followed by the accents of women's voices.

One seemed familiar.

He rose quickly, as light footsteps ran along the corridor, and then the door opened impetuously to the laughing face of Susy! He came towards her hastily, yet with only the simple impulse of astonishment.

He had no thought of kissing her, but as he approached, she threw her charming head archly to one side, with a mischievous knitting of her brows and a significant gesture towards the passage, that indicated the proximity of a stranger and the possibility of interruption.
"Hush! Mrs.McClosky's here," she whispered.
"Mrs.McClosky ?" repeated Clarence vaguely.
"Yes, of course," impatiently.

"My Aunt Jane.