And then he trod on air until he arrived at the landing she had
indicated. Soon the launch glided up, he saw her there reclining under
an awning of striped green.

It was a well-arranged launch, the comfortable deck-chairs were in the
bows, and the steering took place from a raised perch behind the
cabin, so the two were practically alone. The lady was in grey to-day,
and it suited her strangely. Her eyes gleamed at him, full of
mischief, under her large grey hat.

Paul drew his chair a little forward, turning it so that he could look
at her without restraint.

"How good of you to send for me," he said delightedly.

She smiled a radiant smile. "Was it? I am capricious, I did not think
of the good for you, only I wanted you--to please myself. I wish to be
foolish to-day, Paul, and see your eyes dance, and watch the light on
your curls."

Paul frowned; it was as if she thought him a baby.

Then the lady leant back and laughed, the sound was of golden bells.

"Yes, you are a baby!" she said, answering his thoughts. "A great,
big, beautiful baby, Paul."

If Paul had been a girl he would have pouted.

She turned from him and gazed over the lake; it was looking