"I scarcely realize it," she returned suavely. "My recollection of the
park is always so clear. It is surprising, isn't it, how relatives can
live as near together as we in New York and you out here and see one
another so seldom! Life in New York," sighing, "was such a rush for
us. Here amid the rustle of the trees it seems to be scarcely the same
world. Lawrence often said his only lucid intervals were during the
rides he took with Eloise in Central Park. Do you always ride alone,
father?"

"Always," was the prompt rejoinder, while Eloise cast a glance full of
appeal at her mother.

The latter continued archly, "If you could see Eloise on a horse you
would not blame me for trying to screw up my courage, as I have been
doing for days past, to ask you if she might take a canter on Essex Maid
in the morning, sometimes, while you are away. Fanshaw assured me that
she would be perfectly safe."

Mr. Evringham's cold eyes stared, and then the enormity of the
proposition appeared to move him humorously.

"Which maid did Fanshaw say would be safe?" he inquired, while Eloise
glowed with mortification.

"Well, if you think Eloise can't ride, try her some time!" exclaimed
the widow gayly. It had been a matter of surprise and afterward of
resentment that Mr. Evringham could remain deaf to her hints so long,
and she had determined to become frank. "Or else ask Dr. Ballard," she
went on; "he has very kindly provided Eloise with a horse several times,
but the child likes a solitary ride, sometimes, as well as you do."