I walked and walked, and here I am! It 's a good many miles." "It is seven miles and a half," said Gertrude, softly.

Now that this handsome young man was proving himself a reality she found herself vaguely trembling; she was deeply excited.

She had never in her life spoken to a foreigner, and she had often thought it would be delightful to do so.

Here was one who had suddenly been engendered by the Sabbath stillness for her private use; and such a brilliant, polite, smiling one! She found time and means to compose herself, however: to remind herself that she must exercise a sort of official hospitality.

"We are very--very glad to see you," she said.