Page:The Father Confessor, Stories of Danger and Death.djvu/227

Rh from his hold, she stood confused. Ernest drew near, panting with his run.

"I was too late," he said. And then the three looked at each other embarrassed and strange.

"I was painting the falls," the girl explained, "and I thought I would see what they were like from this side. I did not mean to disturb you." She smiled at the inconsequence of her remark.

"You can still see, if you are not too wet," Ernest said.

"I am not wet," she answered, "thanks to this gentleman."

"My brother," Ernest explained. Then, turning to where his brother stood silent, remarked, "You had better go home and change, Hugh, or you will get cold."

The girl looked at his wet things. Her eyes filled with consternation. "Oh, do," she said, "I am so very, very sorry you got wet because of me."

Hugh hesitated a moment. He smiled. "You would not like me to put you back first?"

The girl refused with a merry laugh.