same low distinct utterance, but an earnestness that almost took away
her breath. 'There are nine ferns on this bank--that is, if we have
the Scolopendrium Loevigatum, as I am persuaded. Do you know
anything of ferns? Ah! you come from the land of tree ferns.'

'Oh! I am so glad to exchange them for our home flowers. Primroses
look so friendly and natural.'

'These rocks are perfect nests for them, and they even overhang the
river. This is the best bit of the stream, so rapid and foaming that
I must throw a bridge across for Aunt Catharine. Which would be most
appropriate? I was weighing it as I came up--a simple stone, or a
rustic performance in wood?'

'I should like stone,' said Mary, amused by his eagerness.

'A rough Druidical stone! That's it! The idea of rude negligent
strength accords with such places, and this is a stone country. I
know the very stone! Do come down and see!'

'To-morrow, if you please,' said Mary. 'Mamma must want me, and--but
I suppose they know of your return at home.'

'No, they don't. They have learnt by experience that the right time
is the one never to expect me.'

Mary's eyes were all astonishment, as she said, between wonder and
reproof, 'Is that on purpose?'

'Adventures are thrust on some people,' was the nonchalant reply,