ion the wisdom of my programme, but I think in after
years he will, as you say, look back. The fact remains, however, that
he has not yet tackled the real business of life. He has had, with my
concurrence, plenty of change and variety, which I believe in the end
will prove of service in his life's work, and he has stood the test.
Many young fellows of his age would have abused their opportunities. He
has not done so. My only disappointment has been that he has developed
no definite taste, but has been content to flit from one fancy to the
next, always carried away by the latest novelty on the horizon."

Once again she tilted her head and scanned him with her wide, clear
eyes.

"You mean _Me_?" she said quickly. "I'm the `Latest Novelty!' You mean
that he'll change about me, too? Isn't that what you mean?"

"My dear--Miss O'Shaughnessy," (incredible though it appeared, Stephen
had been on the verge of saying "Pixie," pure and simple) "you leap too
hastily to conclusions. I am afraid I must appear an odious person!
Believe me, I had no intention of rushing into the very heart of this
matter as we have done. My plan was to call upon your sister and
explain to her my position--"

"'Tis not my sister's business, 'tis mine," interrupted Pixie firmly.
"And it would be a waste of time talking to her, for she'd agree with
every word you said. They don't _want_ me to be engaged. They think
I'm too young. If you have anything to say, say it to _Me_. _I'm_ the
person to be convinced."

She settled herself more comfortably as she spoke, turning towards him
with one arm resting on the back of the bench, and her head leaning
against the upturned hand. The sun shone on her face through the
flickering branches. No, she was not pretty; not in the least the sort
of girl Stanor was accustomed to fancy. Yet there was something
extraordinarily attractive about the little face, with its clear eyes,
its wide, generous mouth, its vivacity of expression. Already, after a
bare ten minutes' acquaintance, Stephen Glynn so shrank from the
prospect of hurting Pixie O'Shaughnessy that it required an effort to
keep an unflinching front.

"I agree with your people," he said resolutely, "that you and Stanor are
too young, and that this matter has been settled too hastily. Apart
from that, I should object to any engagement until he has proved his
ability to work for a wife. I have a position in view for him in a
large mercantile