"Yes," she said frankly. "I don't know him very well, but on two occasions he came to my assistance when I needed it. He was very tactful and considerate."
"Then he's fortunate in gaining your good opinion. No doubt, you know something about his history?"
"I dare say my good opinion is not worth much, but I feel that he deserves it, in spite of what I've been told about him," she answered with a blush. "It is very sad that he should have to give up all he valued; and I thought there was something gallant in his cheerfulness—he was always ready with a jest."
"Have you met his companion? I understand that he is not a man of my nephew's stamp."
Millicent smiled.
"Hardly so, from your point of view."
"Does that mean that yours is not the same as mine?"
"I have had to earn my living; and that changes one's outlook—perhaps I'd better not say enlarges it. However, you shall judge. Mr. Harding is a traveler for an American paint factory, and had to begin work at an age when your nephew was at Eton; but I think him a very fine type. He's serious, courteous, and sanguine, and seems to have a strong confidence in his partner."
"Ah! That is not so strange. The Blakes have a way of inspiring trust and liking. It's a gift of theirs."
"Your nephew undoubtedly has it. He uses it unconsciously, but I think that those who trust him are not deceived."