Kilmeny of the Orchard

few gray threads, was still thick and lux— uriant. She had a long, pale face some- what worn and wrinkled, but possessing a certain harsh comeliness of feature which neither age nor wrinkles had quite destroyed; and her deep—set, light gray eyes were not devoid of suggested kindli- ness, although they now surveyed Eric with an unconcealed hostility. Her fig- ure, in its merciless dress, was very angular; yet there was about her a dignity of carriage and manner which Eric liked. In any case, he preferred her unsmiling dourness to vulgar garru— lity.

He lifted his hat.

“ Have I the honour of speaking to Miss Gordon? ” he asked.

“ I am Janet Gordon,” said the woman stiffly.

“ Then I wish to talk with you and with your brother.”

“ Come in.”

She stepped aside and motioned him

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