"Well, I must say I am surprised. I met one of Henry's college friends up at B—, and from what he told me, I should have thought the ministry was about the last thing. However, I suppose all boys must sow their wild oats, whether they are to be ministers or not. I am sorry he is away. I have hardly seen him."
"He has been over at the Bottom several times, but I think you were away every time," said Mrs. Van Alstine. "How did you find your cousins?"
Mrs. Gertrude was diverted from family matters for the time to enlarge upon her city visit and relations. She had had a very nice time, it appeared, and had been a person of great consequence.
After supper she joined Marion and Stanley, who were standing on the verandah watching the sunset.
"What are you doing out here?" she asked.
"Listening to the owls," answered Stanley. "'The moping owl does to the moon complain.' The owl is one of our principal singing-birds in Hemlock Valley."
"Doleful, dismal, stupid old hole!" said Gerty. "Don't you think so?"
"Not I, indeed," said Stanley; "I love it dearly, owls and all."
"Of course you do," said Gerty, laughing significantly; "no need to tell us that, Miss Stanley. I was asking Marion, who has not quite the same reasons for liking it that you have."
"I like it very well," said Marion. "I think the valley is beautiful; and I am sure I have as many reasons for liking it as Stanley, if it comes to that. I have as many friends as she has."