Between review and parade there was a charming bit of free time when Magnus came down to see his sisters. Miss Cray and her party took for granted he was coming also to see them, and there was some bridling and handling of sugar-plum boxes. And it was quite a shock, when Magnus, after bowing to them, turned away, and found himself a seat between "those two Western girls," whom he could see any time.
Sweet brief minutes; I wonder if unlimited free hours can ever have the subtle charm that used to hang over the now-and-then release from quarters?
Mr. Starr came up to claim acquaintance, and presently coaxed Rose away to introduce her to the sidewalk, as he said; Cadet-Captain Trueman appeared, preferring the same claim, though of so much later date. And Miss Cray looked on.
As for my two girls, they were more than content; Violet finding the grave, dark-browed Mr. True a very interesting person indeed; and Rose so taken up with Mr. Starr's sallies of fun and comment, that she missed all the admiring glances bestowed upon her own sweet eyes and laughing mouth. The first drum came all too soon.
Starr went on to just the point where they had turned before, came slowly back and led Rose to her seat; then standing before her and going on with his talk. And Miss Cray listened.
"Mr. Trueman," she said presently, putting in her word, "we had a wager about you last night."
"About me? That certainly speaks you all ladies of much leisure."
"Now, don't begin to preach," said Miss Freak. "Be good for once, and tell us."
"And what, if you please?"
"The point was this," said Miss Saucy. "Kate said that before you will go down on your knees to a woman, you must have a cushion a mile high. The rest of us thought that perhaps a yard might do."