"No, I went to paint Sunnie's picture rather against my inclination."
"You are happier now?"
"Yes," said Jean, looking straight in front of her, "but it isn't my art that is making me happier."
There was silence; then she added a little hurriedly—
"Long ago, when first I knew him, Colonel Douglas gave me this advice. He said, 'Seek the best thing first.' I sought fame, for I thought then it was the best thing. Now I know better."
Another silence. Dr. Fergusson did not break it, neither did Jean. When she reached her lodgings, she held out her hand.
He took it, and kept it in his for a moment. "Then we are fellow-travellers now," he said, looking down upon her with a smile. Jean could not speak, and rather abruptly, he left her.
It was a warm day in June. Jean came in to tea, feeling tired and dusty. She found two letters on the table, and sitting down by the open window, she read the one that interested her most. It was from Mrs. Fergusson.
"MY DEAR JEAN,—Will you give me the pleasure of a short visit now that summer is here? I am sure you must be longing to get away from London dust and noise, and my old garden is looking very sweet in its young green at present. It was very pleasant to see as much of you as I did when I was in town, but our slight acquaintance has only made me wish to see you more, and I am hoping you may reciprocate this wish."
"My son unites with me in kind remembrances."
"Yours affectionately,"
"JANET FERGUSSON."
"Let me know what date would suit you to come."
Jean drew a long breath of delight and longing. It seemed to her that at last, the wish of her heart was going to be gratified.