“But they seem to add, somehow, to the thoroughbred appearance,” Honora declared.
“That's absolutely true,” replied Joshua,—whereupon he began to talk. And Honora, still asking questions, followed him from stall to stall. “There are some more in the pasture,” he said, when they had reached the end of the second building.
“Oh, couldn't I see them?” she asked.
“Surely,” replied Joshua, with more of alacrity than one would have believed him capable. “I'll tell Susan to drive on, and you and I will walk home across the fields, if you like.”
“I should love to,” said Honora.
It was not without astonishment that the rest of the Holt family beheld them returning together as the gongs were sounding for luncheon. Mrs. Holt, upon perceiving them, began at once to shake her head and laugh.
“My dear, it can't be that you have captivated Joshua!” she exclaimed, in a tone that implied the carrying of a stronghold hitherto thought impregnable.
Honora blushed, whether from victory or embarrassment, or both, it is impossible to say.
“I'm afraid it's just the other way, Mrs. Holt,” she replied; “Mr. Holt has captivated me.”
“We'll call it mutual, Miss Leffingwell,” declared Joshua, which was for him the height of gallantry.