"Don't do that, please. If you wish me to try I will. But don't tell me anything."
"Why not?"
"Because—I am—intelligent and quick—imaginative—discerning. I might unconsciously—or otherwise—be unfair. So don't tell me anything. Let me see if there really is in me any ability."
He met her candid gaze mildly but unsmilingly; and she folded her slim hands in her lap and sat looking at him very intently.
"Is your name Symes?" she asked presently.
He nodded.
"Elisha Symes?"
"Yes."
"And—do you live in Brook—Brookfield—no!—Brookhollow?"
"Yes."