"Yes, you said something of the kind, but I never understood what you meant by it."
"Settle up your business here, pack together what things you need for a few months' sojourn in the mountains, be ready to start with me next week, and you will soon understand."
"What is this hermitage, as you call it, and where is it?" Darrell asked, curiously.
The other only shook his head with a smile.
"All right," said Darrell, laughing; "I only hope it is as secluded and beautiful as Camp Bird; I am homesick to-night for my old quarters."
"You can spend your entire time, if you so desire, without a glimpse of a human being other than the man who will look after your needs, except as I may occasionally inflict myself upon you for a day or so."
"Good!" Darrell ejaculated.
"It is amid some of the grandest scenery ever created," Mr. Britton continued, adding, slowly, "and to me it is the most sacred spot on earth,—a veritable Holy of Holies; some day you will know why."
"I thank you, and I beg pardon for my levity," said Darrell, touched by the other's manner. And the two men clasped hands and parted for the night.
A few days later, as Darrell bade his friends at The Pines good-by, Kate whispered,—