Page:Alice Stuyvesant - The Vanity Box.djvu/224

 "You are going to let the thought of Major Smedley drive you away from this little abode of peace!" Terry exclaimed.

Sir Ian looked at her, but didn't speak. He would not say, "It is for your sake." It ought not to be necessary to say that.

His look calmed Terry, who was always ruffled to the point of extreme irritation by the very mention of Major Smedley's name. It was infuriating that so mean a creature should have power to obtrude himself upon her life, or Ian Hereward's; but an instant's reflection showed her that Sir Ian was right.

"It is a pity," she said. "I think it would have done us both good to have a few friendly talks together in a place like this, for I want to keep your friendship, Ian; and I have given you mine. But at such a time, with Major Smedley spying upon us with his hateful cat's eyes, everything would be spoiled. I see that. But it's a pity—a pity!"

"I've had three peaceful days. He can't rob me of those," answered Sir Ian, with a tired smile. "I feel better for them, and for even this short talk with you—this sight of you. I take it as a blessing. Besides"

"Besides—what?" she asked, when he stopped.

"Why, you seemed to be with me here, before you came, before I dreamed you might come. Your old self, showing me the walks you told me about, so long