It is simply one of those peculiar aversions one gets." They seemed to accept this statement, and so the matter was agreeably settled.
When, at ten o'clock, I came down dressed for riding, my companion was out in front of the house, making a drawing; the four young ladies were with him, all seemingly enchanted with his work, and none of them in riding habits.
"Who's going with me ?" I asked as I strolled toward them.
They looked at one another inquiringly.

Then the Efficient Sister said: "I'd like to go, but this is pay day and I can't leave the place." "I have to go to town for some supplies," said the Domestic Sister.
"I want to stay and watch this," said the Sociological and Artistic Sister.

(She made a gesture toward my companion, but I think she referred to his drawing.) "I'm going away to a house party," said the Sprightly Sister who Likes to Dance.

"I must pack." "You can't get lost," said the Domestic Sister.
"Even if you should," put in the Efficient Sister, "Dr.Bell would bring you home." During this conversation my companion did not look up from his work, neither did he speak; yet upon his back there was an expression of derisive glee which made me hope, vindictively, that he would smudge his drawing.

However inscrutable his face, I have never known a man with a back so expressive.
"Here comes Dr.Bell," remarked the Sociological and Artistic Sister, as a negro groom appeared leading the sorrel steed.
"Well," I said, trying to speak debonairely as I started toward the drive, "I'll be going." I wished to leave them where they were and go around to the other side of the house to mount.