"Lydia has few loves, but they're strong," he said. "I'm her foster father. My name's John Levine."
Lydia disengaged herself. "And this is Miss Towne," she said, "my dearest teacher."
"I've heard your praises sung for a long time," said Levine.
"And I've heard Lydia sing yours," returned Miss Towne.
"And no one else, I'll bet," laughed John.
"Sit down," said the chaperone, with what dignity she could muster with her hair down her back, "while Lydia and I finish dressing."
"You'll have lunch with us?" called Lydia as she retreated toward the tent.
"Yes, but I can't stay longer. Must be back in Lake City for supper," replied Levine, tying up his horse.
The luncheon was a success. Lydia was delighted to put her hand to cooking again, and while Miss Towne set the table, John chatted with both of them of his Washington experiences. He rode away immediately after he had finished eating. Miss Towne wiped the dishes thoughtfully.
"It's hard to realize that he's the scandalous John Levine," she said.
"He's simply charming!"