"It was Ida's own idea," replied Herrick with a smile, "seeing you two so glum, she fancied that you regretted your engagements and wanted to marry one another. Just say if this is the case Bess and Ida and I will console each other! That would be only fair, you know!"
The first smile that Herrick had seen on her face since his return dimpled the cheek of Bess. "I never heard such nonsense. I like Stephen, but you are the man I love. You stupid Jim; you know that!"
"I am not quite sure if I do," said Jim gravely; "in love there should be complete confidence."
"Surely there is, between us," said Bess nervously.
"You can't look me in the face and repeat that."
Bess made the attempt, and failed. "It is nothing!" she said obstinately.
"There _is_ something however," said Dr. Jim sternly, "you and Stephen have some secret between you which is making you both ill. What is it?"
"I can't tell you Jim."
"Then there _is_ a secret?"
"I won't be questioned like this!" cried Bess with angry evasion.