"Well?" she returned, with the sweet smile which graced her every approach to communication.
"Did my sister—in—law ever tell you what an idle fellow I used to be?"
"Certainly not. I never heard her say a word of you that wasn't kind."
"That I am sure of. But there would have been no unkindness in saying that; for an idle fellow I was, and the idler because I was conceited enough to believe I could do any thing. I actually thought at one time I could play the violin. I actually made an impertinent attempt in your presence one evening, years and years ago, I wonder if you remember it."
"I do; but I don't know why you should call it impertinent."
"Anyhow, I caught a look on your face that cured me of that conceit. I have never touched the creature since,—a Cremona too!"
"I am very sorry, indeed I am. I don't remember—Do you think you could have played a false note?"
"Nothing more likely."
"Then, I dare say I made an ugly face. One can't always help it, you know, when something unexpected happens. Do forgive me."
"Forgive you, you angel!" cried Roger, but instantly checked himself, afraid of reaching his mark before he had gathered sufficient momentum to pierce it. "I thought you would see what a good thing it was for me. I wanted to thank you for it."