“I’ve seen a lot worse there too,” said her husband.
“Of course you have, and few better.”
“My dear, you have a wonderful eye! Two of them indeed!” He turned toward her, smiling quizzically.
“Oh, you may smile! But I know pictures a little,” she exclaimed defiantly.
“God forbid I should deny it! If you were only on the hanging committee! But, heigh, oh!” he yawned, stretching mightily. “I am fair done. I think I shall take a gun down the valley right after lunch.”
“You must be, and you have earned a real holiday. And, Hugh, darling,” she came to him with hands lifted, “I know you finished this just for me.” Her face was shining with an inner light, as she locked her hands about his neck.
He stood a moment, looking into her eyes, then gathered her gently into his arms and carried her to a chair, holding her to him.
“Well, I did,” he said, his voice a little uncertain. “And,” he added, kissing her, “it was worth while.”
She settled down into his arms with a little sigh.
“We are very happy, Hugh. I am afraid sometimes we are too happy.”