“Dr. Grey, who was that sweet singer?”
“Salome Owen.”
“How can such a thing be possible, when I have never heard a note from her lips? You told me she had no musical talent.”
“I was not aware that she sang at all, until this afternoon, and your surprise does not equal mine.”
“Where did you find her?”
“Sitting on a mound of sand, singing to the sea.”
“Who is with her?”
“No one. I requested her to come with us, and offered to walk beside my buggy; but she declined. Please be so considerate as to say nothing about this occurrence, when you reach home; because animadversion only hardens that poor girl in her whimsical ways. Now we will dismiss the matter.”
Muriel endeavored to render herself an agreeable companion during the remainder of the drive; but her guardian, despite his efforts to become interested in her conversation, was evidently distrait, and both felt relieved when they reached Grassmere, where Miss Jane and the governess welcomed their return.
Dr. Grey dismissed his buggy and entered the hall; but passed through the house, and, crossing the orchard, followed the road leading seaward.