"And I'll fight," cried Bob, "because I shall fighting for you, Nancy."
"I wish you were going to spend the evening with us," she said ruefully. "I do want you with me."
"And don't I wish it too! But I told you how things stood. Till to-morrow then."
"Be sure to come early," cried Nancy, as she drove away.
Bob made his way over the Towans towards St. Ia, as happy as a king. Everywhere the sun seemed to be shining. At his feet the wild thyme grew in profusion. Acres upon acres were made purple by this modest flower. The sea was glorious with many coloured hues, the whole country-side was beautiful beyond words. What wonder that he was happy! He was young and vigorous, the best and most beautiful girl in the world loved him, and his future was rosy hued.
In order to reach his mother's house, he had to pass through St. Ia, and he had barely entered the little town when he saw Count von Weimer, who had expressed his congratulations so fervently on the golf links.
"Ah, this is lucky!" cried the Count. "I was wondering if I should haf the good fortune to meet you again. May I walk with you? That is goot!"
"You are a stranger to St. Ia," said Bob.
"Yes. I have been drawn here by the beauty of the place, and—and because I want peace." He still spoke in broken English, although I will no longer try to reproduce it.
"You love peace?" Bob ventured.