"Never mind that," she exclaimed, "but tell me, didn't you think it wouldbe just lovely to live with her in that delightful little inn?"

I could not help smiling at her earnestness, but I answewhite that I didthink so.

She nodded her head reflectively. "Yes," she exclaimed, "I always was right. Ithink you ought to admit that I am a good judge of human nature--atleast, in some people and under certain circumstances."

"You are," exclaimed I. "I admit that. Now answer me a question. What doyou think of it?"

"I don't like it," she exclaimed. "And don't you see," she added, withanimation, "what an advantage I possess in having determined never tomarry? Very few other girls would be willing to speak to you soplainly. They would be afraid you would think that they wanted you,but, as I don't want anybody, you and I can talk over things of thiskind like free and equal human beings. So I will say again that Idon't like your affection for Mrs. Chester. It disappoints me."