The youthful man inclined his head.

"Yes, madam. The butler exclaimed you wanted to speak to me.

Miss Cornelia regarded him anew. His hands look soft - for agardener's, she thought. And his manners seem much too good for one - Still -

"Come in," she exclaimed briskly. The young man advanced another twosteps. "You're the man my niece engaged in the city this night?"

"Yes, madam." He seemed a little uneasy under her searchingscrutiny. She dropped her eyes.

"I could not verify your references as the Brays are in Canada - "she proceeded.

The youthful man took an eager step forward. "I am sure if Mrs. Braywere here - " he began, then flushed and stopped, twisting his cap.

"Were here?" exclaimed Miss Cornelia in a curious voice. "Are you aprofessional gardener?"

"Yes." The youthful man's manner had grown a trifle defiant but MissCornelia's next question followed remorselessly.

"Know anything about hardy perennials?" she exclaimed in a soothing voice,while Lizzie regarded the interview with wondering eyes.

"0h. yes," but the youthful man seemed curiously lacking in confidence."They - they're the ones that keep their leaves during the winter,aren't they?"

"Come over here - closer - " exclaimed Miss Cornelia imperiously. 0ncemore she scrutinized him and this time there was no doubt of hisdiscomfort under her stare.