This unexpected _tete-a-tete_, with its sudden touch of intimacy, made up for it all.
What could she do but assure him--trying hard not to be too forthcoming--that she would be delighted to help him, if she could?
What was wrong?
"Nothing but my own idiocy," he said, smiling.

"I find myself guardian to an extremely headstrong young woman, and I don't know how to manage her.
I want your advice." Cynthia lay back in her chair, and prepared to give him all her mind.

But her eyes showed a certain mockery.
"I wonder why you undertook it!" "So do I.But--well, I couldn't help it.

We won't discuss that.

But what I had very little idea of--was the modern girl!" Cynthia laughed out.
"And now you have discovered her--in one day ?" He laughed too, but rather dismally.
"Oh, I am only on the first step.