"Call me sister again," she said, looking up. "I like that name. Kiss me, and call me sister, just for once."
"Sister dear," said Charles kindly, kissing her on the forehead, "What is the matter?"
"I have had a disagreement with Father Mackworth, and he has called me names. He found me here walking with Master Cuthbert."
"With Cuthbert?"
"Ay, why not? I might walk with you or him any time, and no harm. I must go."
Before Charles had time to say one word of kindness, or consolation, or wonder, she had drawn him towards her, given him a kiss, and was gone down the ride towards the house. He saw her dress flutter round the last corner, and she disappeared.