Kilmeny of the Orchard

her. But Neil’s tale had an ugly sound and made us very angry. We have no reason to be over-trustful in the case of strange men, Master. Perhaps you meant no harm. I am willing to believe that, sir. But there must be no more of it.”

“ I hope you will not refuse me the privilege of seeing your niece, Mr. Gor- don,” said Eric eagerly. “ I ask you to allow me to visit her here. But I do not ask you to receive me as a friend on my own recommendations only. I will give you references—men of standing in Char— lottetown and Queenslea. If you refer to them—”

“ I don’t need to do that,” said Thomas Gordon, quietly. “I know more of you than you think, Master. I know your father well by reputation and I have seen him. I know you are a rich man’s son, whatever your whim in teaching a coun- try school may be. Since you have kept your own counsel about your affairs I supposed you didn’t want your true posi-

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