"In a moment. If you get into trouble, or need anything, will you write to me? Remember, I am your mother's friend."
"Is not Mr. Hargrove also?"
"Certainly."
He took her hands, and bending down looked kindly into the delicate lovely face.
"Good-bye, Regina."
"Good-bye, Mr. Palma."
"I hope, little girl, that we shall always be friends."
"You are very good to wish it. Thank you for taking care of me. Because you are my mother's best friend, I shall pray for you every night."
His sternly moulded lips twitched with some strange passing reminiscence of earlier years, but the emotion vanished, and, pressing her hands gently, he turned and went down the walk leading to the gate.