"I am not sure it is. I have great faith in natures that can take complete rest—men who can do nothing, absolutely nothing—and so create a reserve fund of fresh energy for the next hour of need. There is no strength in fidgety feverishness."
"There is not much feverishness in knitting," returned Katherine, beginning a new row.
"There is very little feverishness about you, yet you are not placid. I am extending and verifying my original estimate of your character, you see."
"A most interesting occupation," said Katherine, carelessly.
"Yes, most interesting. I wish I had more frequent opportunities of studying it; but one never sees you all day. Where do you hide yourself?"
"I take long rambles with the children, and—" She paused.
"Does it amuse you to play nurse-maid?"
"Yes, at present. Then my nephews and I were playfellows long ago."
"I imagine it is a taste that will not last."
"Perhaps not."