"But that was FIGHTING Nature, not patronizing her; and it's a business
that pays. That reminds me that I must go back to it," said Bradley,
rising and knocking the ashes from his pipe.

"Not AFTER dinner, surely!" said Mainwaring, in surprise. "Come now,
that's too much like the bolting Yankee of the travellers' books."

"There's a heavy run to get through tonight. We're working against
time," returned Bradley. Even while speaking he had vanished within the
house, returned quickly--having replaced his dark suit by jean trousers
tucked in heavy boots, and a red flannel shirt over his starched white
one--and, nodding gayly to Mainwaring, stepped from the lower end of the
veranda. "The beggar actually looks pleased to go," said Mainwaring to
himself in wonderment.

"Oh! Jim," said Mrs. Bradley, appearing at the door.

"Yes," said Bradley, faintly, from the bushes.

"Minty's ready. You might take her home."

"All right. I'll wait."

"I hope I haven't frightened Miss Sharpe away," said Mainwaring. "She
isn't going, surely?"

"Only to get some better clothes, on account of company. I'm afraid
you are giving her a good deal of trouble, Mr. Mainwaring," said Mrs.
Bradley, laughing.