“Indeed, indeed, I shall always love you, dear Maggie,” said Merry.
“Then you will do what I want?”
“I don’t like to make promises, and I am so much in the dark; but I can certainly say this—that, whatever happens, I shall be your friend at school. I shall look to you to help me in a hundred ways.”
“Will you indeed, darling Merry?”
“Of course I shall. I always intended to, and I think Cicely will do just the same.”
“I don’t want you to talk to Cicely about this. She doesn’t care for me as much as you do.”
“Perhaps not quite,” said honest Merry.
“Oh, I am sure—certain of it. Then you will be my friend as I shall be yours, and when we meet at Aylmer House you will talk of me to others as your friend?”
“Of course I shall.”
“That’s what I require. The thought of your friendship when I love you so passionately makes sunshine in my heart. I sha’n’t be miserable at all to-morrow after what you have said. I shall think of our pleasant talk under this great oak-tree; I shall recall this lovely, perfect day. Merry, you have made me very happy!”