'I was invited to go to the Reading Saturday night!' said Hazel with a half laugh, 'and I refused.'
'You had better. Don't you come, to complicate matters.'
'What should I complicate!I am the most straightforward person going.'
'I am getting too much distinguished society. But I want to talk to you about that institution, Hazel. I have a great deal to talk to you about. It is very singular that you have nothing to say to me.'
Arrived at the house, Dane lingered awhile in the red room, surveying its pretty tokens of pretty life, where among other things the two little Catskill sketches in dainty wooden frames hung upon the walls; but he refused an invitation to stay and dine with Mr. Falkirk.
'I cannot. Wych, I must get to the Hollow before the mills are closed.'
She gave him a grave, wistful look, but said nothing.
'I shall open a shorter cut, across fields, between here and the Hollow. It might save four or five miles. Gov. Powder owns some of the ground, the Kingslands, and I think one or two more, have the rest. I can easily manage it. Twelve miles is too far between you and me,' he added smiling.
'Yes.'
He stood looking at her; perhaps considering what the proper distance would be, or rather not be; and also probably thinking that it was too soon to trouble her with that question, for he presently came forward silently to bid her good-bye, and was off.