Page:The Tattooed Countess (1924).pdf/96

 swift transition: Have you met Lou Poore's sister?

The Countess Nattatorrini? she asked, falteringly. Yes. I didn't know she had any other sister.

I met her. . . I met her at her sister's reception, the day after she arrived.

I wish I could meet her, Gareth continued. I'd like to listen to her talk about Paris. I suppose she's seen Sarah Bernhardt.

Of course, she must have.

And she probably knows some of the modern French authors. I'll bet she has a lot to talk about.

The day I met her she was talking about Maple Valley. Lennie, who did not feel like smiling, recalling the conversation, smiled in spite of herself.

Answering the questions of the natives, I suppose, Gareth said. I know! Don't I just know! How do you like Maple Valley? Have you seen the new water-works? Mother had a cousin from Chicago visiting her awhile back and she got that all the time she was here.

Again the wistful expression stole over Lennie Colman's face.

You're awfully clever, Gareth, was all she found to say.

He was silent again for a moment, his eyes directed straight upward towards the leafy branches, before he went on: I wonder if I can meet her?