"Oh, yes, so I did have," he replied, "I only looked in a minute to bid Ruby good-morning."
"Yes, sir," the nurse replied, constrainedly, and looked out of the window. The way Mr. Desmond regarded her out of his large, bold eyes made her feel slightly nervous. She heartily wished that he would go away and leave her alone.
But Mr. Desmond seemed in no haste to fulfill his business engagement. He sat silently a moment, regarding the delicate profile of the half averted face, then said, carelessly:
"Where do you come from, Mary—New York?"
"I am from the south, Mr. Desmond," said the girl, biting her lips to keep back her resentment at his familiar address.
"Indeed? From what part of the south?" he inquired.
"Excuse me, sir, I do not care to reveal my private affairs to a total stranger," replied Golden, with such sudden spirit and haughtiness that the fine gentleman stared.
"Whew!" he exclaimed, "I did not mean any offense, Miss Smith, I only wished to know the precise spot where such peerless beauties as yourself are reared. I would certainly immigrate instanter to that most precious locality."
Golden rose, crimson with anger, and crossed to the door.