She said musingly: "I wonder if they are right?"--sighed as though
doubtful.

"To whom do you refer?"

"Why, the people who say that time flies when it is spent in pleasant
company."

"They are correct," Mr. Marrapit affirmed.

"Oh, I do not doubt it for my part, Mr. Marrapit. I never knew what
happiness was until I come here--came here. But if--" The masterly
woman paused.

"Continue" Mr. Marrapit commanded.

The hard word was softly spoken. Mrs. Major's heart gave two little
thumps; her plan clear before her, pushed ahead. "But if to you also,
Mr. Marrapit, the time has seemed to fly, then--then Mr. Marrapit, my
company has--has been agreeable to you?"

Certainly there was a softness in Mr. Marrapit's tones as he made
answer.

"It has, Mrs. Major," he said, "it has. Into my establishment you have
brought an air of peace that had for some time been lacking. Prior to
your arrival, I was often worried by household cares that should not
fall upon a man."