Mr. Allen seated himself, at Mrs. Alroy's invitation, while the girls went to get on their wraps. As they talked of the weather and the usual subjects discussed by strangers, Mr. Allen looked at the lady in rather a puzzled manner, as if wondering where he had seen her before. Finally he said:
"Excuse me, Mrs. Alroy, but may I ask what was your maiden name?"
She told him, but rather coldly, as if she considered the question impertinent.
He read her thought well enough, but unhesitatingly continued:
"The Van Ortons of New York?"
"Of New York, yes."
"I thought so; it must be one of your brothers whom you so strongly resemble. I could not think whom you were like, the day of the celebration over at the school-house, but that, I see, was what puzzled me. I know your brother and his family quite well. I have had business relations with him for years, which have been very pleasant ones."
"I am glad to meet someone who has seen my brother recently. I have seen no member of my family for years; it has been impossible for me to go home, and my circumstances have been such that I have managed to prevent their visiting me, for I had no desire to have them do so. Should you have any communication with him, I ask as a favor that my name may not be mentioned."
"Your wishes, of course, will be respected, madam," the gentleman replied courteously.
The girls appeared at this moment, ready for the walk home, and Mr. Allen rose, adding: