“Why, of course, Luke,” she said, smiling in his face, and with a calm feeling of rest and protection coming over her disturbed spirit.
“I’m glad I caught you,” he said. “Let’s walk slowly, for I’ve a great deal to say to you before you go in.”
“But, first of all, tell me, Luke, dear,” she cried eagerly, “is the appointment confirmed?”
“No.”
“No? Not confirmed? Then, that wicked old Bone—”
“That wicked old Bone of contention,” he said, laughingly taking her up, “has had very little to do with it. At one time I thought that it would be very cruel to take his post, but I do not think so now.”
“But not confirmed, Luke?” she cried, stopping short and clinging to his arm, the picture of bitter disappointment. “Why, this is the meaning, then, of the opposition uncle spoke of yesterday. Who has dared to stop you from having the school?”
“You,” said Luke, as he gazed admiringly in her animated face.
“I, Luke? I?” she exclaimed, in a puzzled way.
“Well, it is through you, dear,” he said, smiling.