"Please don't," laughing, "one spinster is enough."
"Well, I won't, then; I think I'll come as your father confessor."
At this Olive joined in the laugh.
"Good-night, Dr. Vaughan."
"Good-night, Miss Payne," with exaggerated emphasis and dignity, but holding fast to her hand.
She looked at the hand doubtfully, then up into his face. "Good-night—brother," with pretty shyness.
"That is better," releasing the little hand. "Good-night, sister mine. Mind you drink every drop of the wine."
"I will!" quite seriously. "Good-night, Olive."
Olive stooped and kissed her cheek. "Good-night, dear," she said, "and happy dreams."
Dr. Vaughan opened the door for her, and smiled after her as she looked back from the foot of the stairs. Then closing the door he came back, and stood on the hearth-rug, looking thoughtful.