Silence, during which Whitcomb gloomily uprooted such long grasses as grew near him.
"I have no expectation of marrying anyone," said Linda, "and you are a hero in my eyes to-day, if that is any comfort to you."
Whitcomb lifted a frowning, obstinate gaze to hers.
"Holdfast's a good dog," he said sententiously. Presently he spoke again. "It's time for King to eat. I must go."
"I'll walk with you as far as Aunt Belinda's."
Whitcomb helped her gather up books and work and they moved away together.
CHAPTER XXII
THE PENITENT
Blanche Aurora caught sight of the two strolling through the field toward the house and she called her mistress's attention to them.