Mr. Winslow had brought but few of his personal possessions. He had several favorite pictures hung against the rich brown wood of the cabin walls.
A sketch book lay open on a table.
Sheila Mason saw it at once and asked to be allowed to look at the sketches.
In spite of his beautiful manners she had discovered that her new acquaintance was shyer than she had imagined. Dorothy and Tory were not so far from the truth, for he did give one the impression that he suffered from a disappointment that had had a deep influence upon his nature. Whether his disappointment was due to his lack of success or to some other reason, Sheila had no way of estimating. When they knew each other better he might confide in her. She felt they might become friends, as he would recognize that she too had been more unhappy than most people.
These were the Troop Captain’s unspoken impressions as she and Mr. Winslow sat by the window of the cabin studying his book of sketches. Already he had made a drawing of the cabin with the beechwood forest as a background which she greatly admired and coveted.
As they talked Tory was making the final preparations for tea.
She insisted the privilege be granted her, as she knew the resources of the cabin better than its present host. Moreover, her aunt, Miss Victoria Fenton, had sent the newcomer a number of gifts for his present and future comfort.
Tory had carried them packed in a basket.
She placed the cake and the home-made jam on the table, glancing frequently at her two companions.
They seemed to be getting on very well, considering their brief acquaintance.