"It's a pity I've nothing to tell, in view of my sympathizing audience," he replied, with a glance at the gigglers on the other seats.
"But I have been told," said Lottie, "that in emergencies committees have been appointed to select wives for missionaries, and that there are excellent women who are willing to sacrifice themselves for the sake of the cause."
An explosion of laughter followed these words, but she looked at the others in innocent surprise.
"That's a funny speech for you to make so gravely," said Hemstead. "I fear you are quizzing me. Your missionary lore certainly exceeds mine in regard to the 'committees.' But there will be no emergency in my case, and I should be sorry to have any woman, excellent or otherwise, sacrifice herself for me."
"I have certainly heard so," said Lottie, positively.
"I fear you have heard more to the prejudice of missionaries and their works than in their favor," he said somewhat gravely.
"But I am willing to hear the other side," she whispered in his ear.
"Now I protest against that," said De Forrest.
"I'll give you the privilege of whispering to Bel," said Lottie, sweetly.
"O, thank you," replied De Forrest, with a shrug.