professor sufficiently.

In conclusion, and without giving further opportunity for
discussion, the Commander seems to have shaken his Cousin
Christopher by the hand with much enthusiasm; and then to have
turned to Malvina. She did not move, but her eyes were fixed on
him. And he came to her slowly. And without a word he kissed her
full upon the lips.

"That is twice you have kissed me," said Malvina--and a curious
little smile played round her mouth. "The third time I shall
become a woman."



IV. HOW IT WAS KEPT FROM MRS. ARLINGTON.



What surprised the Professor himself, when he came to think of it,
was that, left alone with Malvina, and in spite of all the
circumstances, he felt neither embarrassment nor perplexity. It was
as if, so far as they two were concerned, the whole thing was quite
simple--almost humorous. It would be the other people who would
have to worry.

The little serving maid was hovering about the garden. She was
evidently curious and trying to get a peep. Mrs. Muldoon's voice
could be heard calling to her from the kitchen. There was this
question of clothes.