use," Mrs Jones of the general stores moved
the position of a row of sweet-bottles in the shop window, in order to
enjoy a better view of the daily encounter, and the boatmen waiting
impatiently for customers consulted their watches on the appearance of
either of the interesting couple, and indulging an apparently ingrained
habit, bet pennies together concerning the time which would elapse
before the advent of "t'other," And still Jean wrapped herself in her
mantle of reserve, and refused to mention Gloucester's name even in
private conclave with her friend.

Piers Rendall often walked over to the Cottage to spend some hours of
the day with his friends, and, strange as it might appear, the two young
men seemed mutually attracted to each other. Vanna believing them both
to be in love with the same girl, was constantly watching for signs of
jealousy and irritation, but none appeared. If Piers was occasionally
somewhat silent and distrait, the fact did not interfere with his
transparent enjoyment of Gloucester's company; while Robert himself
seemed to take a positive pride and pleasure in the knowledge of the
other's devotion.

"He admires her desperately, doesn't he? Every one does. There are
dozens of fellows head over heels in love with her, I suppose. Scores!
She must be kept busy refusing them, poor fellows! Hard lines for a
girl, especially when she is so sweet and sensitive, and sympathetic,
and--"

Vanna threw up her hand with a comical little grimace of appeal.

"That's enough, that's enough! Three adjectives are quite a good
allowance for one sentence. Spare me the rest. Miss Goring has a
charming disposition, and she is duly appreciated. That's settled. Now
we'll talk of something else. How did the fishing go this morning? A
good haul?"

They looked at each other and laughed with mischievous enjoyment. Each
time they found themselves alone the same thing happened. Gloucester
persistently endeavoured to talk about Jean; Vanna as persistently
turned the subject. On both sides the contest was conducted with
absolute good humour. It was as amusing as a game, in which each tried
to outwit the other, to set for him an unconscious trap and pitfall.

To-day they walked along the country lanes, Jean and Piers Rendall
ahead, Miggles bringing up the rear, with a schoolboy hanging on each
arm. These two lads, Jack and Pat, adored the old woman who had been
their confidante and mentor from their earl