And Britomarte merely answered “yes” or “no,” until, indignant at the influence that was growing upon her, she suddenly erected her haughtly little head with an impatient shake, and said:
That she could not appreciate the minutiae of river scenery; that only the ocean in its grandeur and might could awaken her admiration.
At this moment Dr. Rosenthal called to his son, and Justin, with a bow, left the side of Britomarte.
“Why, Britty, dearest! I always thought you loved river scenery,” said Erminie, when they were left alone together.
“So I do, as a general thing, but I don’t care about it to-day,” answered Miss Conyers.
“Well, Britty, dear, I never knew you to be capricious before.”
“Nature has given me no immunity from the common weaknesses of humankind.”
Erminie looked so hurt at the curtness of her friend’s words and manner, that Britomarte suddenly took her hand and tenderly caressed it.
Erminie, touched by this new proof of love, was encouraged to press Britomarte to go home with her to the parsonage.
Miss Conyers caressed her and thanked her, but reiterated her resolution to go to Witch Elms.