“You see, he is not only famous but modest,” said Maimie; “but that is an old characteristic of his. I knew Mr. Macdonald a very long time ago.”
“Very,” said Ranald.
“When we were quite young.”
“Very young,” replied Ranald, with great emphasis.
“And doubtless very happy,” said Lady Mary.
“Happy,” said Ranald, “yes, so happy that I can hardly bear to think of those days.”
“Why so?” inquired Lady Mary.
“Because they are gone.”
“But all days go and have to be parted with.”
“Oh, yes, Lady Mary. That is true and so many things die with them, as, for instance, our youthful beliefs and enthusiasms. I used to believe in every one, Lady Mary.”