But worst of all he had not seen Maimie all the week.

His experience with Harry in the ordering of his suit had taught him the importance of clothes, and he now understood as he could not before, Maimie's manner to him.

"That would be it," he said to himself, "and no wonder.

What would she do with a great, coarse tyke like me!" Then, in spite of all his loyalty, he could not help contrasting with Maimie's uncertain and doubtful treatment of him, the warm, frank friendliness of Kate.

"SHE did not mind my clothes," he thought, with a glow of gratitude, but sharply checking himself, he added, "but why should she care ?" It rather pleased him to think that Maimie cared enough to feel embarrassed at his rough dress.