Captain Obed answered as best he could.
“She's real pretty, isn't she,” affirmed Miss Timpson. “I don't know when I've seen a prettier woman. Such eyes! And such hair! Ah hum! When I was her age folks used to tell me I had real wonderful hair. You remember that, don't you, Mr. Hammond?”
Mr. Hammond chuckled. “I remember lots of things,” he observed diplomatically.
“You think she's pretty, don't you, Mr. Daniels?” persisted Miss Timpson.
East Wellmouth's legal light bowed assent. “A—ahem—a very striking young lady,” he said with dignity. He had scarcely taken his eyes from the newcomer while she was in the room. John Kendrick said nothing.
When Emily and Thankful returned to the living-room there were introductions and handshakings. And, following these, a general conversation lasting until ten o'clock. Then Miss Howes excused herself, saying that she was a bit tired, bade them all good night and went to her room.
Captain Obed left soon afterward.
“Well, John,” he said to his friend, as they stood together on the front step, “what do you think of this for a boardin'-house? All I prophesied, ain't it?”
Kendrick nodded. “All that, and more,” he answered, emphatically.
“Like Mrs. Barnes, don't you?”