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 here to Timbuctoo and from Timbuctoo to Bagdad, every one, always with the fighting legs to the road. He is ready to fight if he must, you see, or to depart at a right angle if that appears the only wise thing to do. It is the most admirable trait, and we all should learn it of them."

"I learn of you, Aurélie," Ogle said. "I think I'd much rather learn of you, my dear."

"I must always think you a flatterer," she returned amiably. "Your opinion of my superiority is a little overwhelming. Also, I understood our journey was to be neither eccentric nor unconventional; I fear it might seem both if you call me your dear."

At that he felt a little rebuffed. "You mind it?"

"Well" She gave him an indulgent smile, in which there was something a little too maternal to be quite to his liking. "You told me I must not be your aunt; but if you call me your dear when anybody is listening, I think you must put that word with it."

"What word?"

Aunt, she said. "You will much better call me 'dear Aunt.

"You love to mock me!"

Then, seeing that he frowned, she laughed, and touched his arm. "Look," she said. "There is