"Yes, of absolute country, as country. He does not like a chimney-pot to be within view, except his own. Not from any real objection to society. I hardly know what gives rise to the feeling. He says he cannot breathe comfortably among houses."
Julia looked her sympathy. Mrs. Ogilvie asked next—
"How is Miss Rivers?"
"Quite well, I believe." Julia grew suddenly shy. "Are you one of Hermione's friends?"
"Not in any intimate sense. I was very fond of her mother in my childhood, and that gives me a particular interest, of course, in Hermione. We only meet occasionally, however. She is a pretty girl."
"Yes," Julia assented.
"She was quite 'the old man's darling' while Mr. Dalrymple lived."
"Yes."
"And now, perhaps, she is a great pet with all of you?"
There was a curious expression hovering round Mrs. Ogilvie's lips as she put the question. Did she expect an affirmative in reply? Julia hesitated, then said—