But Fleda was for once happy to be cruel; she would hear no remonstrances. Though her desire for Miss Lucy's "help" had considerably lessened, she thought she could not in politeness avoid speaking on the subject, after being invited there on purpose. But Miss Lucy said she "calculated to stay at home this winter," unless she went to live with somebody at Kenton, for the purpose of attending a course of philosophy lectures that she heard were to be given there. So that matter was settled; and, clasping Hugh's arm, Fleda turned away from the house with a step and heart both lightened by the joy of being out of it.
"I coudn't come sooner, Fleda," said Hugh.
"No matter Oh, I'm so glad to be away! Walk a little faster, dear Hugh. Have you missed me at home?"
"Do you want me to say no or yes?" said Hugh, smiling. "We did very well mother and I and I have left everything ready to have tea the minute you get home. What sort of a time have you had?"
In answer to which Fleda gave him a long history, and then they walked on a while in silence. The evening was still, and would have been dark but for the extreme brilliancy of the stars through the keen, clear atmosphere. Fleda looked up at them, and drew large draughts of bodily and mental refreshment with the bracing air.
"Do you know to-morrow will be Thanksgiving-day?"
"Yes; what made you think of it?"
"They were talking about it; they make a great fuss here
Thanksgiving-day."
"I don't think we shall make much of a fuss," said Hugh.
"I don't think we shall. I wonder what I shall do I am afraid uncle Rolf will get tired of coffee and omelettes in the course of time; and my list of receipts is very limited."