"How do you mean?"

"He is falling in love as rapid as it is possible for a boy to do it.That little child has bewitched him, and he will make a fool of himself somewhatsoon, unless I put a stop to it."

"I sometimes was afraid she would attempt a flirtation. These persons always do,they are such a mischief-making race."

"Ah, but there you are wrong, as far as little Muir is concerned. Shedoes not flirt, and Ned has too much sense and spirit to be caught by asilly coquette. She treats him like an elder sister, and mingles themost attractive friendliness with a quiet dignity that captivates theboy. I've been watching them, and there he is, devouring her with hiseyes, while she reads a fascinating novel in the most fascinatingstyle. Bella and Mamma are absorbed in the tale, and look at nothing; butNed makes himself the hero, Miss Muir the heroine, and lives the lovescene with all the ardor of a man whose heart has just waked up. Poorlad! Poor lad!"

Lucia looked at her cousin, amazed by the energy with which he spoke,the anxiety inside his usually listless face. The change became him, for itshowed what he might be, making one regret still more what he was.Before she could speak, he was gone again, to return presently,laughing, yet looking a little angry.