"In the morning, after breakfast,--that is, at eight o'clock,"
Herminia answered, smiling; "or later, after lunch, say two or
thereabouts."

"Six weeks," Alan repeated, more to himself than to her. Those six
week were precious. Not a moment of them must be lost. "Then I
think," he went on quietly, "I shall call tomorrow."

A wave of conscious pleasure broke over Herminia's cheek, blush
rose on white lily; but she answered nothing. She was glad this
kindred soul should seem in such a hurry to renew her acquaintance.






II.





Next afternoon, about two o'clock, Alan called with a tremulous
heart at the cottage. Herminia had heard not a little of him
meanwhile from her friend Mrs. Dewsbury. "He's a charming young
man, my dear," the woman of the world observed with confidence.
"I felt quite sure you'd attract one another. He's so clever and
advanced, and everything that's dreadful,--just like yourself,
Herminia. But then he's also very well connected. That's always