But if you will take this horrid waterproof--" "There is not much use for waterproofs this beautiful weather," said Jeffreys, beginning to walk beside her.

Then, suddenly recollecting himself, with a vision of Mrs Rimbolt before his mind, he fell back, and said awkwardly,-- "Perhaps I had better--I must not detain you, Miss Atherton." She saw through him at once, and laughed.
"You propose to follow me with those things as if I was an Eastern princess! Perhaps I had better carry them myself if you are afraid of me." "I'm not afraid of you," said Jeffreys.
"But you are afraid of auntie.

So am I--I hope she'll meet us.

What were you saying about the weather, Mr Jeffreys ?" Jeffreys glanced in alarm at his audacious companion.

He had nothing for it after this challenge but to walk with her and brave the consequences.