Whereupon Robert bent abruptly, kissed the instep of the little riding-boot which stuck out from under her skirt, and swung into his saddle.
The action thrilled Barbara somewhat, but at the same time piqued her interest; and the interest dominated.
"Why did you do that, Robert?" she asked, curiously, looking at him with wide, frank eyes. "I didn't mind it a bit, you know! But it's funny, to kiss my old shoe!"
Robert gave a little unsteady laugh.
"It was homage, my lady," said he. "Just my pledge of fealty, before I go. You forget—I have the misfortune to displease you by being a monarchist!"
Barbara was silent a moment. She was sorry he had reminded her of their differences of opinion. But, on the other hand, homage was not unpleasant; and her scorn of kings did not of necessity extend to queens.
"Why do you go?" she asked.
"My grandmother is sending me at a moment's notice, to represent her in a law-scrape which some property of hers—of ours—in New York has suddenly got into. You know that, now that I am through college, I have to get down to work at once in New York, and fit myself to look after our estates. But I didn't dream I should have to go so soon!"
"I am sorry!" said Barbara, simply. "We were having such a pleasant time together!"
"Were we, dear lady?" asked Robert.