"I did; but I hardly thought you would take advantage of it."
"Perhaps I ought not to have done so. Indeed, I tried hard not to. Are you very angry?"
"No, I am not angry at all. I am glad to see you." She held out her hand. "So is Leo, too—only see him caper."
The dog was leaping upon Mr. Castrani, with the liveliest demonstrations of joy. He patted the silky head.
"It is something to be welcomed by a brute, Miss Harrison; their instincts are seldom at fault, I believe. Have you been well, Miss Harrison?"
"Very well, thank you. And you? But I need not ask. Your looks answer for you. When did you leave New York?"
"I have been in New York only a fortnight since I last saw you. Business has kept me elsewhere. I came from New York three days ago. What a beautiful spot you have hidden yourself in!"
"I am pleased to hear you say so. Isn't it lovely? But you must tell me about home. How are all my friends?"
"They are well. How mellowy the sunshine falls on the rough crags opposite, and what a picture for a painter to transfer to canvas!"
"Yes, I have wished I were an artist, over and over a gain. But I have no talent in that direction. My friends are all well, you say? What of Miss Lee? Did you see her?"