"What are you doing here alone when I see there is nobody talking to the girl from Winnipeg ?" The man laughed a little.

"I was wondering whether it is a good sign or otherwise when a young woman is, so far as she can decently be, uncivil to a man who desires her good-will." Mrs.Macdonald glanced at him sharply, and then shook her head.

"The question is too deep for you--and it is not your affair.

Besides, haven't you seen that indiscreet freedom of speech is not encouraged at Silverdale ?" In the meanwhile Winston, crossing the room, took a vacant place at Maud Barrington's side.

She turned her head a moment and looked at him.
Winston nodded.