"Have you ever met a Miss Kitten?"
"The cadets' 'pet Kitten'? Well, I should say I had, rather."
"Magnus; I do not like to hear you talk so."
"But that is what she is, mammy, so why shouldn't I say it?"
"Always speak respectfully about women, my dear."
"Women? Well, let her pass for that," said Magnus, unconsciously quoting Portia.
"You do know her then?"
"Enough to take off my cap when I meet her and walk while she talks," said Magnus. "Why mammy, what makes you so curious about the Kitten?"
"I am interested in anyone you know."
Mrs. Kindred went on, silently putting the remains of the feast into the basket. Magnus, leaning on one elbow, watched the hands that did their work so quietly and well. Then he bent down and kissed first one hand and then the other, touching them with cheek as well as lips. And Mrs. Kindred left her basket, and coaxed his head down on her lap, softly stroking and caressing it. Magnus drew a long, deep breath.