“Miss Bonifield,” said Vance, with emotion, “you are, indeed, a constant surprise to me. Your playing is certainly superb, while your voice; not only soft and musical, but has great range. To hear you sing fills me with a longing to be a better man.”
“Thank you,” said Louise, “I seldom play or sing excepting for papa. Your compliment, however, is highly appreciated.”
“As long as I remain in Gold Bluff I hope I will be privileged in hearing you sing occasionally.”
“We will promise not to ostracize you altogether, Mr. Gilder,” said Louise, laughingly, “but may I ask how long you expect to remain with us?” There was just enough hesitation in the question to suggest interest.
“I do not know,” replied Vance. “I presume you think it is strange that I have remained as long as I have. To be frank with you, Miss Bonifield, I have lost my position on the Banner.”
“Lost your position!” said Louise, with unmistakable concern.
“I am indeed sorry,” replied Vance, “whether it is a misfortune or not. I had an offer to-day to take charge of the Gold Bluff Prospector, and am thinking seriously of accepting.”
“You quite astonish me,” said Louise, “but I know papa will be delighted if you conclude to remain permanently in Gold Bluff.”
“Of course,” said Vance thoughtfully, “there is quite a difference between the New York Banner and the Gold Bluff Prospector—one a cosmopolitan daily and the other a country newspaper without any special circulation. It would only be profitable to me as I increased its circulation and its importance to advertisers. I shall not decide for a few days. I may receive some explanation from the Banner that will put a different light upon my dismissal.”