CHAPTER IV
KILLIMAGA
Father Murray was sitting in his favorite chair on the rectory veranda when Mark came up the lawn. He rose with a welcome.
"You must pardon me, Father," began Mark, "for coming so soon after your noon meal—" Mark hesitated about saying "luncheon," not knowing the habits of the rectory—"but, frankly, I wanted to talk to you before—"
"Before we go to Killimaga," supplied Father Murray as Mark paused. "Yes, I know that you are invited. Sit down and open up. I am always glad to talk—and to listen, too. What is it?"
Again Mark hesitated. "It's to ask about Miss Atheson."
Father Murray's eyes smiled. "I thought so," he said. "What do you want to know?"
Mark hesitated. "I know that the lady is very charitable and kind, but especially so to anyone whom you suggest. You must, therefore, be interested in anything that concerns her."
"I am," said Father Murray. "Very much interested."