Sidney and K. Le Moyne sat under a tree and talked. In Sidney's lap lay a
small pasteboard box, punched with many holes. It was the day of releasing
Reginald, but she had not yet been able to bring herself to the point of
separation. Now and then a furry nose protruded from one of the apertures
and sniffed the welcome scent of pine and buttonball, red and white clover,
the thousand spicy odors of field and woodland.
"And so," said K. Le Moyne, "you liked it all? It didn't startle you?"
"Well, in one way, of course--you see, I didn't know it was quite like
that: all order and peace and quiet, and white beds and whispers, on
top,--you know what I mean,--and the misery there just the same. Have you
ever gone through a hospital?"
K. Le Moyne was stretched out on the grass, his arms under his head. For
this excursion to the end of the street-car line he had donned a pair of
white flannel trousers and a belted Norfolk coat. Sidney had been divided
between pride in his appearance and fear that the Street would deem him
overdressed.
At her question he closed his eyes, shutting out the peaceful arch and the
bit of blue heaven overhead. He did not reply at once.
"Good gracious, I believe he's asleep!" said Sidney to the pasteboard box.
But he opened his eyes and smiled at her.
"I've been around hospitals a little. I suppose now there is no question
about your going?"
"The superintendent said I was young, but that any protegee of Dr. Wilson's
would certainly be given a chance."
"It is hard work, night and day."
"Do you think I am afraid of work?"
"And--Joe?"
Sidney colored vigorously and sat erect.
"He is very silly. He's taken all sorts of idiotic notions in his head."
"Such as--"
"Well, he HATES the hospital, of course. As if, even if I meant to marry
him, it wouldn't be years before he can be ready."
"Do you think you are quite fair to Joe?"
"I haven't promised to marry him."
"But he thinks you mean to. If you have quite made up your mind not to,
better tell him, don't you think? What--what are these idiotic notions?"
Sidney considered, poking a slim finger into the little holes in the box.
"You can see how stupid he is, and--and young. For one thing, he's jealous
of you!"