Page:Pratt portraits - sketched in a New England suburb (IA prattportraitssk00full).pdf/277

 absorbed in conversation, and both felt a pang of regret as the tall clock in the dining-room sent its solemn voice echoing through the house proclaiming the hour of ten.

Dr. Winship sprang promptly to his feet, for he prided himself upon knowing how to go. But before precipitating himself out of the door, as was his wont, he shook his entertainer cordially by the hand, and said, with unmistakable sincerity: "I don't know when I have enjoyed an evening so much. May I bring my violin next time?"

"Next time!" The words sounded like music, the very clang of the closing door resounded like a peean through the house.

As Mary Anne stood in the middle of the room, trying to get her balance, there was a sharp rap on the door which she opened hastily.

"Have you seen the new moon over your left shoulder?" asked the young doctor, with amusing eagerness. "It has rained so much lately I thought you might have missed it."

"No. I haven't seen it. But you ought to look at it over your right shoulder."

"Oh, no! That's a great mistake. The Germans, who are up in mystic lore, taught me better."

She held back doubtfully.

"I've always been so particular about it," she said.

"Well, now. Just trust to me, and try it the