"Good afternoon, Melina," he said; "were you admiring my flowers?"
"Yes," she assented, adding half apologetically, fearful that she had been guilty of a breach of good manners, "just for a minute."
"Wait, and I will give you a nosegay."
"Oh, sir, how kind of you!"
She stood at the gate and watched whilst he gathered some blooms of narcissi and daffodils, and thanked him gratefully when he returned to her and put the flowers into her hands.
"May I do what I like with them?" she asked, her face aglow with pleasure.
"Certainly; they are your own," he replied, smiling. "Perhaps you would like to give some to your friends, the Browns, as you are going to tea with them?"
"Oh yes! That was just what I was thinking! But how did you know that—" She broke off, looking at him in a puzzled fashion.
"How did I know where you are going? Because I met Mrs. Brown this morning, and she told me she expected you to tea this afternoon. I hope you will have a pleasant time. I am so glad you are making friends, Melina. Now, run along or you'll be late. Good afternoon."
"Good afternoon," Melina returned, "and thank you very, very much."