“You find it interesting?”
“Intensely so, sir. Æneas had so many adventures.”
“This young girl is also studying Latin,” said the Judge. “Airy, can you decline mensa for Dallas?”
In a low, gentle voice, and with a manner so full of caution that it was almost terrified, Airy got through her task with credit to herself and her friend. Dallas listened politely and showed not a sign of a smile.
After she finished he thanked her, and then turned to the Judge again, who dismissed him by a smile.
“I will say good-night, sir,” said Dallas, “then I will not need to disturb you later on.”
“Very well, good-night,” and the Judge extended a hand.
Dallas shook hands with him, bowed to Airy, and left the room.
The little girl drew a long breath and rose to her feet. “I’ve had enough for to-night. Sir, if ever I get rich and you get poor, just you come to me an’ I’ll help you.”
The Judge smiled mournfully. Poor child—how easy to bridge the gulf between them by words, and yet she was an apt pupil.