He looked at her, and gave the ghost of a smile.
"I know why she doesn't come," he said.
"There is no mystery about it," replied Katherine. "She is anything but strong. We have to look after her."
"When is she going to marry Keith? Why don't you hurry on the wedding?"
"We don't have weddings in Ladysmith," was the girl's reply.
"I don't see why you should not; there are parsons here, and all the rest. It would be about the best thing possible for Miss Kitty. I'll let her know as much when I see her."
"I hope you won't do so much mischief, Major Strause. Kitty is content to be close to Gavon. No wedding could be contemplated for a moment."
"She's likely to lose him if she doesn't look out."
Katherine did not even ask him what he meant; she stood and fixed her eyes upon him. He shuffled under their clear gaze.
"Look here," he said, "I'd like to do you a good turn. You are very fond of Miss Kitty Hepworth, are you not?"