"That is a mere quibble—a legal quibble. Well, there is no doubt that you would make a very successful lawyer."
"Is that a compliment, or does it approach the verge of one?"
Before this problem could be solved Herbert, who was deeply engaged in a game of checkers with his younger sister, at the other end of the apartment, suddenly announced: "Rose, here is Mr. Galton coming across the street, making directly for our house."
"Oh, dear!" was the very inhospitable exclamation of its pretty mistress. Then as she caught an amused glance from Allan's eyes, she added demurely, "I am so glad."
"Perhaps it would be better for me to go." The words escaped with obvious reluctance.
"Better for which of us?"
"For both, I think."
"Your charities are conducted on too large a scale. Now, if you could only content yourself with benefiting one of us you would remain. I have a dread of that man."
"So have I, but from a different motive. As your dread increases, mine grows less."
Close analysis and consideration of this fact gave a very becoming tint to her cheeks as she welcomed the entering guest. "Ah, Miss Rose," he exclaimed, "blooming as ever, in spite of wintry days. Do you know I came very near going past your door?" He allowed the announcement of this providentially averted calamity to sink deep into her heart, while he bowed to Allan.