"James," said Miss Annesley, "go and wash your face at once."
"Yes, Miss."
At the sound of his voice Nancy turned swiftly; but the groom had presented his back and was leading the horse to the stables.
Nancy would never tell me the substance of her conversation with Miss Annesley that afternoon, but I am conceited enough to believe that a certain absent gentleman was the main topic. When she left, it was William who led out the horse. He explained that James was still engaged with soap and water and pumice-stone. Miss Annesley's laughter rang out heartily, and Nancy could not help joining her.
"And have you heard from that younger brother of yours?" Betty asked, as her friend settled herself in the saddle.
"Not a line, Betty, not a line; and I had set my heart on your meeting him. I do not know where he is, or when he will be back."
"Perhaps he is in quest of adventures."
"He is in Canada, hunting caribou."
"You don't tell me!"
"What a handsome girl you are, Betty!"—admiringly.