"By the way," said Mr. Erskine, noting (and somehow resenting) the pink tints that came up in Cherry's cheeks; "what has become of that 'very best sort of a girl' you talked so fast about last week?"
"What has become of her?" Magnus repeated, standing involuntary "attention."
"Yes. Where is she?"
"At home, sir."
"I will not ask where that is, as I have not permission," said Mr. Erskine, smiling now; "but what does she say to your coming here first and staying so long?"
"She has made no objection as yet, sir. So I do not think she will."
"Well, she ought, if she cares enough for you," said Mr. Erskine. "Boy, I'm afraid you have got yourself tangled up in a foolish thing."
"What should you call 'enough,' sir?"
"Well—all she can," said Mr. Erskine.
"How much could any first-best girl care for me, sir?" said Magnus, moving a step or two for a better view of Cherry.