"Is your house so nearly completed, then?" she asked, as they went down the walk together.
"So nearly, that I require a woman's opinion upon the inside arrangements; and there is no one whose judgment upon such matters I value more than yours."
"I suppose you mean to imply that I am a good housekeeper? But there is great diversity of taste among good housekeepers, Mr. Rumway."
"Your taste will suit me—that I am sure of. I did not see Willie at home; is he gone away?" he asked, to cover a sudden embarrassing consciousness.
"I let him go home with Mr. Chillis, last evening, but I expect him home to-night."
"Poor old Joe! He takes a great deal of comfort with the boy. And no wonder!—he is a charming child, worthy such parentage,"—glancing at his companion's face.
"I am glad when anything of mine gives Mr. Chillis pleasure," returned Mrs. Smiley, looking straight ahead. "I teach Willie to have a great respect and love for him. It is the least we can do."
Rumway noticed the inclusive we, and winced. "He is a strange man," he said, by way of answer.
"A hero!" cried Mrs. Smiley firmly.
"And never more so then when in whisky," added Rumway, ungenerously.