"This comes of a common man putting himself above his station by getting
into gentlemen's skates," he said. "Had I been content with a humble
slide, as my fathers was, I should ha' been a happier man at the present
moment." He sighed, rose, touched his hat to Miss Ward, and took off his
skates, adding: "Good-morning, Miss. Miss Wilson sent me word to be here
sharp at six to put on the young ladies' skates, and I took the liberty
of trying a figure or two to keep out the cold."

"Miss Wilson did not tell me that she ordered you to come," said Miss
Ward.

"Just like her to be thoughtful and yet not let on to be! She is a
kind lady, and a learned--like yourself, Miss. Sit yourself down on the
camp-stool and give me your heel, if I may be so bold as to stick a
gimlet into it."

His assistance was welcome, and Miss Ward allowed him to put on her
skates. She was a Canadian, and could skate well. Jane, the first
to follow her, was anxious as to the strength of the ice; but when
reassured, she acquitted herself admirably, for she was proficient in
outdoor exercises, and had the satisfaction of laughing in the field at
those who laughed at her in the study. Agatha, contrary to her custom,
gave way to her companions, and her boots were the last upon which
Smilash operated.

"How d'you do, Miss Wylie?" he said, dropping the Smilash manner now
that the rest were out of earshot.

"I am very well, thank you," said Agatha, shy and constrained. This
phase of her being new to him, he paused with her heel in his hand and