The next place in order was Stewart's.
'I have something to get for Prim, too,' said Rollo as the carriage stopped. 'I have provided a new patent upright trunk; and I propose to stock all its compartments. Will you help me? Else, I am afraid, I shall never know all that ought to go in.'
'Well,' said Wych Hazel,'is it to be filled with Prim's ideas, or mine?'
'Let us give her what she can use and enjoy; every comfort we can think of; and nothing that would not be a comfort. You wonder at my choice of a present, perhaps; but Dr. Maryland's means are very limited, and I know Rosy often hesitates about a new pair of gloves.'
'I can choose gloves,' said Hazel confidently. 'But thenDane"
'Well?' said he, smiling, as he pushed open the swinging door.
Hazel walked on in a brown study.
'Never mind,let me see you begin, and maybe I shall learn how to go on,' she said, as they paused before one of the dress goods counters.
It was no doubt new experience to her. For Rollo began with soft merino and warm plaid pieces, choosing colours and qualities indeed with care, yet refusing the more costly stuffs which were offered. Except that he indulged himself and Primrose with a delicate gray camel's hair at last. At the silk counter he would not be tempted by the exquisite tender hues which the shopman suggested to his notice; no, he looked, and called for others, and finally bought a good dark green and a black, the mate to Mrs. Coles' black silk. At the glove counter he handed the matter over to Wych Hazel. She had watched all his proceedings with observant eyes, saying hardly a word, unless upon some point of quality where she knew best. Now she faced him again.
'How much do you want to invest in gloves, please?'