"I beg your pardon, I didn't see you," answered the lad apologetically. "I am in something of a hurry to get home and dress for the meeting to-night, after I have had my supper."
"Just like your name, sir; always in a rush. You haven't even time to come and see us. I am beginning to think you do not care to have us for your friends."
Steve did not answer.
"Tell me frankly why you have always refused my invitations to visit us."
"Frankly, Miss Cavard, your brother and myself are not very friendly."
"Is that the reason? He thinks that you have not been loyal to the union."
The Iron Boy drew himself up proudly.
"We will not discuss that subject, Miss Cavard."
"Come, I will walk along with you, since you are in such a great hurry. Because you and my brother are not friendly is no reason why you and I should not be friends, is it?"
"Perhaps not, but it is better that we should not be friends under the circumstances."