"Estelle is quite right; you contrived to grow up without the necessary healthful quota of sound whipping which you richly deserved."
Mr. Murray did not seem to hear her words; he was looking down intently, smiling into his cousin's handsome face, and, passing his arm around her waist, drew her close to his side. He murmured something that made her throw her head quickly back against his shoulder and look up at him.
"If such is the end of all your quarrels, it offers a premium for unamiability," said Mr. Allston, who had been studying Edna's face, and now turned again to his cousin. Curling the end of his moustache, he continued:
"St. Elmo, you have travelled more extensively than any one I know, and under peculiarly favorable circumstances. Of all the spots you have visited, which would you pronounce the most desirable for a permanent residence?"
"Have you an idea of expatriating yourself—of 'quitting your country for your country's good'?"
"One never knows what contingencies may arise, and I should like to avail myself of your knowledge; for I feel assured only very charming places would have detained you long."
"Then, were I at liberty to select a home, tranquil, blessed beyond all expression, I should certainly lose no time in domesticating myself in the Peninsula of Mount Athos."
"Ah! yes; the scenery all along that coast is described as surprisingly beautiful and picturesque."
"Oh, bah! the scenery is quite as grand in fifty other places. Its peculiar attraction consists in something far more precious."
"To what do you refer?"