The grounds outspread before his eyes were spacious and attractive; in the distance he even perceived an artificial lake with paths winding enticingly along its shore, and through strips of woodland.

Who could this strange girl be?
this Natalie Coolidge?
And what could she possible desire of him?
These questions remained unanswered, yet continually tantalized.

He could not even grasp her personality.

In spite of her apparent friendliness, her irresistible smile, her lack of conventionality, there remained a certain reserve about the young woman he felt quite unable to penetrate.

Whatever game she was playing she kept the cards securely in her own hands.