That word "forever" did what nothing else could have achieved. It brought Miss Parrott to herself. Then it was Rachel who led her about the old-fashioned garden, and chattered about the flowers, unmindful whether or no she was answered, until presently Miss Parrott was quite recovered, and even smiling in a well-pleased way. At last she pulled out her ancient watch from her belt.
"Now, Rachel," she said, "you must go back to the parsonage this afternoon, for Mrs. Henderson expects you."
"I'll stay if you want me to," said Rachel, moving closer to Miss Parrott's side.
"No, dear—not to-day, because it wouldn't be right; the parson and his wife only loaned you to me for to-day, but——"
"What's 'loaned'?" interrupted Rachel abruptly, and wrinkling her forehead.
"Why, they only let me have you just for today," said Miss Parrott.
"Oh."
"And so you must go back, but I shall come for you again," and Miss Parrott turned a hungry glance down upon the dark little face at her side.
"I'll come," said Rachel, with a sociable nod.
"And, Rachel"—Miss Parrott drew her closer to her side—"you may keep the coral beads, dear. That shows you are really coming back to me to stay."