"No one could," remarked Roger with conviction.
Elsbeth looked up and laughed at him.
"So you are human!" she said. "I was beginning to doubt it."
"When I get on the subject of Alwynne's adorableness——" he laughed back at her, "we're obviously cousins, aren't we? But, really, I've been trying to be detached, and critical, and analytical, and all the things you feel are important. I wanted to see what you meant, Cousin Elsbeth; and I do see that we both want the same thing. But as to the means—I believe I must go my own way."
She eyed him doubtfully. But he looked very big and solid in the little room, comfortingly sure of himself.
"You think me a frantic old clucking hen, don't you? And are just a little sorry for the duckling."
"I think you're a perfect dear," said Roger.
"You'll come to-morrow? Alwynne will be back, I hope."
"What time is she likely to turn up?"
"About four, if she comes. She would lunch with Clare, I expect."