Nothing passed that day between Marigold and Narcissus on the subject of Todd. Marigold did not refer to him, and Narcissus wisely held her peace. Marigold was very thoughtful while at the Vicarage, and still more on her way home. She was alone this time, having carefully abstained from telling Todd of her little expedition. But half-way back, to her surprise, he appeared as before, from behind a clump of bushes, and walked forward with a confident air.
Then a swift thought came to Marigold that now was the time to make a stand—to hold herself free. "I'm not to drift into it!" she told herself resolutely, and she stopped short.
"Well, so here you are, eh?" said Todd. "Didn't let me know, but I found out, you see!"
"I didn't tell, because I didn't mean to walk home with you," said Marigold.
Todd laughed easily. "Can't help it now,—as I'm here!"
"I don't think it's right. Father would not be pleased."
"Rubbish!"
"It's not rubbish. I mean what I say."
"Rubbish!" repeated Todd. "Come along."
"No. It is not right. I would rather walk home alone."