"The trip would not cost much; suppose you speak to Russell about it."
"Much or little it will require more than we can possibly spare. Everything is so high, we can barely live as it is. But I must go in; my aunt is waiting for me."
They shook hands and Irene walked on. Soon the brick walls of the academy rose grim and uninviting, and taking her place at the desk she applied herself to her books. When school was dismissed in the afternoon, instead of returning home as usual, she walked down the principal street, entered Mr. Watson's store, and put her books on the counter. It happened that the proprietor stood near the front door, and he came forward instantly to wait upon her.
"Ah, Miss Irene! happy to see you. What shall I have the pleasure of showing you?"
"Russell Aubrey, if you please."
The merchant stared, and she added—
"I want some kid gauntlets, but Russell can get them for me."
The young clerk stood at the desk in the rear of the store, with his back toward the counter; and Mr Watson called out—
"Here, Aubrey, some kid gauntlets for this young lady."
He laid down his pen, and taking a box of gloves from the shelves, placed it on the counter before her. He had not noticed her particularly, and when she pushed back her hat and looked up at him he started slightly.