“I’m getting tired of the market people,” he answered; “but how can I avoid going unless I fall ill, or something of that sort?”

Her face became crimson, but she made no reply.

“You will not be angry with me if I was to fall ill,” he asked, in a whisper, and placing his hand caressingly on her shiny soft hair.

“Mr. Fortescue,” she cried, in evident surprise. “I do not understand your meaning—​angry! In what way can your movements concern me?”

Kitty came in again.

She darted a panther-like look at Fortescue, who received it with a face of marble.

“I have been showing Mr. Fortescue how to make pastry,” said Mrs. Ashbrook to her servant.

“Is the gentleman going to take a situation as man cook, then?” said Kitty, sarcastically.

Mrs. Ashbrook was greatly chagrined at this last observation.

“You are a funny girl,” cried she.