"Indeed, was," he replied. "Why, I recall now that once when we were
having a friendly dispute, he threatened that unless I came to his terms
he would come over here, search you out, and try to steal you away from
me."

"But then he had not seen _me_," said Grace, mockingly.

All laughed at that. Rose spoke first and said: "But, if he is your close
friend, and has come to England with you, why does he go back to the
hotel?"

Browning smiled and said, "Why, child, save for three days in his own
father's house, he has been under no gentleman's private roof for years.
He does not know our English methods. And that makes me think; I, too,
must go. My own tenure here was a little uncertain, when I went away, and
now I, too, am going to the hotel. When my father comes, Grace, you may
tell him I have been here, that I called, but that I am staying at
the ---- Hotel. If he comes and calls upon me, I shall be glad to see
him; if he does not, why, to-morrow at ten, if you girls will have your
hats and wraps on, I think Jim and myself will be glad to engage you for
a drive. Jim has not been forbidden the premises, and he can call for you
while I wait outside."

No persuasion would make him remain. Putting his arm around Rose, he drew
her to him, and said: "We will give the old folks a chance to do the fair
thing; if they will not, what then, little one?"

"Henceforth," she answered, gravely, but low and sweet, "your home is to
be my home, your God my God." Then she bent and touched his hand with her