He looked her suddenly straight in the eyes. "There is a great store of sunshine in you," he said. "One can't come near you without feeling it. Isabel will tell you the same. Do you keep it only for the Alps? If so,—" he paused.
Dinah's face flushed suddenly under his look. "If so?" she asked, under her breath.
He smiled. "Well, it seems a pity, that's all," he said. "Rather a waste too when you come to think of it."
Dinah's eyes caught the reflection of his smile. "I shall remember that,
Mr. Greatheart," she said.
"Forgive me for preaching!" said Scott.
She put out a hand to him quickly, spontaneously. "You don't preach—and it does me good," she said somewhat incoherently. "Please—always—say what you like to me!"
"At risk of hurting you?" said Scott. He held the small, impulsive hand a moment and let it go.
"You could never hurt me," Dinah answered. "You are far too kind."
"I think the kindness is on your side," he answered gravely. "Most people of my acquaintance would think me a bore—if nothing worse."
"Most people have never really met you, Stumpy," said Isabel unexpectedly. "Dinah is one of the privileged few, and I am glad she appreciates it."