'"And where is Maud?" said I.
'"I think Maud is by this time about halfway to Elverston," said the old gentleman. "I persuaded her to take a drive, and advised a call there, which seemed to please her, so I conjecture she obeyed."
'"How very provoking!" cried I.
'"My poor Maud will be sadly disappointed, but you will console her by a visit—you have promised to come, and I shall try to make you comfortable. I shall be happier, Monica, with this proof of our perfect reconciliation. You won't deny me?"
'"Certainly not. I am only too glad to come," said I; "and I want to thank you, Silas."
'"For what?" said he.
'"For wishing to place Maud in my care. I am very much obliged to you."
'"I did not suggest it, I must say, Monica, with the least intention of obliging you," said Silas.
'I thought he was going to break into one of his ungracious moods.
'"But I am obliged to you—very much obliged to you, Silas; and you sha'n't refuse my thanks."