"Down the avenue, sir."
"What avenue?"
"Blessington avenue. But only to 40th street."
"Let us go together."
They had the walk to themselves; for though Norton had waited for Matilda till she came out, he sheered off when he saw what company she was in, and contented himself with keeping her in sight. Just then Norton did not care to come to closer quarters with Mr. Wharncliffe. This gentleman talked pleasantly with Matilda; asked how she happened to come to the school, how long she had been in the city, and something about her life at Shadywalk. At last he came back to the subject of the afternoon's lesson.
"You think it is difficult to be as loyal as Daniel was?"
"What is 'loyal,' sir?"
"It is being a true subject, in heart;—faithful to the honour and will of one's king."
"I think it is difficult"—Matilda said in a subdued tone.
"How come you to find it so?"