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 a perfect man and a gentleman, however," she hastily added as if in defense.

From the emotion detected in the girl at the beginning of the conversation, Miss Gregory had expected a rapturous description of the young man. When she found the girl loathed to speak of Bennet, and then only in terms of quiet praise and defense, she realized that Louise, too, entertained a deep emotion for Bennet. With this realization she asked:

"Have you seen him often?"

"Yes, when at games and at other times the boys give. He's very popular. I've never been in his company much. He's the young man who saved me during the strike riot last fall."

"Oh, I see." She turned to the girl with: "Would you marry him?"

The two looked straight into each other's souls at the question, Louise hesitated a moment, then dropped her head as she answered.

"Yes, Miss Gregory. I would if he asked me. But he won't—he won't."

Miss Gregory arose, stroked the girl's head then walked to her window and gazed to the street. "Maybe he will," she said—"Maybe he will. That is all dear."

Louise, hesitated, still seated on the arm of the chair from which Miss Gregory had risen. She wanted to speak her heart but maidenly emotions prevented. Slowly she left the room, half cheered, half disheartened, and full of wonder.