"Sometimes the events themselves are but shadows," she replied, dryly.
"Now that is severe upon the beaux. How about the belles?" he asked, quickly.
"I have nothing to say against my own sex, sir."
"That is not fair. Of course I can say nothing adverse."
"If you should say what you think, I fear we should be little inclined to cry with Shylock, 'A Daniel come to judgment!'"
"You have a dreadful opinion of me, Miss Walton. I wish you would teach me how I can change it."
"You discovered so much in a chestnut burr the day you came I should not be surprised if you could find anything else there that you wish to know."
"I shall not look in burrs for chestnuts this afternoon, but for something else far more important."
Gregory spent the forenoon quietly in his own room reading, in order that he might have all the vigor possible for the ramble. And to Annie, as housekeeper, Saturday morning brought many duties.
By two o'clock the nutting expedition was organized, and with Jeff in advance, carrying a short ladder and a long limber pole, the party started for the hills. At first Johnny, oppressed with his dignity as Aunt Annie's "beau," stalked soberly at her side, and Susie also claimed Gregory according to agreement, and insisted on keeping hold of his hand.