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!"




readonlinefreebook.com Copyright 2016 - 2024