xplain, I asked, "Why is it not necessary?"

"Because she is not a fool," returned Sarah, indicating by her manner
that I might find her meaning if I could.

A moment's thought carried me to her conclusions, and I laughed because I
was answered and pleased, being convinced that Sarah, at least, did not
consider her sister in danger. Then I caught Sarah in my arms and kissed
her, saying:--

"A kiss! That's for wisdom, cousin!" Sarah's was a drawing personality.

"A slap! That's for impudence!" answered Sarah, suiting the action to the
word, though there was a smile in her eyes.

Later in the afternoon Frances came home radiant and offered me her cheek
to kiss. She was delighted to see me, though I noticed short lapses from
attention, which seemed to indicate preoccupation. But I had learned my
lesson from Sarah and soon came back to my belief that Frances was not a
fool, and that whatever malady her symptoms might indicate, she would
never permit it to inure her.

After talking with my uncle and my cousins a few minutes, I said: "I have
had a long ride and want a good supper Come, Frances, let us go out and
buy all the good things in Sundridge."

Sir Richard said nothing, and a faint shadow of humiliation came to
Frances's face, but practical Sarah settled the question by saying:--

"Go with him, Frances, and see that he buys enough. You know we have had
barely a crust in the house the last fortnight, and not a farthing in all
that time with which to buy one. We have a warm welcome for you, Baron
Ned, but welcome after a long ride is a mere appetizer. I'll fetch a
basket--yes, two!"

The name "Baron Ned" was a heritage from the days of my childhood, and
doubtless it will cling to me till the day of my death. I have never
objected to it on the lips of my friends, but rather, have always liked
it.

Sarah's good common sense set us all laughing, and when she brought in
two large baskets, Frances and I went forth to buy our supper.

When we were a short way from the house, I said: "I've come to spend
several days with you, my cousin-sister. Are you not delighted?"

"Yes," she answered, cordially enough, but without the old-time gladness
in her manner.

"And my purpose in coming concerns you," I continued.

She started perceptibly and blushed, but after a moment brought herself
together and asked laughingly:--

"You don't want to marry me, brother Ned?"

"No, no," I answered. "We're far too dear to each oth