Aikenside - Page 7/166

Naturally very polite to females, Guy's first impulse was to go to her

assistance, but she did not need it, as was proven by the light spring

with which she reached the ground. The white-haired man was with her

again, but he evidently did not intend to stop, and a close observer

might have detected a shade of sadness and anxiety upon his face as

Madeline called cheerily out to him: "Good-by, grandpa. Don't fear for

me; I hope you have good luck;" then, as he drove away, she ran a step

after him and said; "Don't look so sorry, for if Mr. Remington won't

let you have the money, there's my pony, Beauty. I am willing to give

him up."

"Never, Maddy. It's all the little fortin' you've got. I'll let the

old place go first;" and, chirruping to Sorrel, the old man drove on,

while Madeline walked, with a beating heart, to the office door,

knocking timidly.

Glancing involuntarily at each other, the young men exchanged meaning

smiles, while the doctor whispered softly: "Verdant--that's sure.

Wonder if she'll knock at a church."

As Guy sat nearest the door, it was he who held it ajar while Madeline

came in, her soft brown eyes glistening with something like a tear,

and her cheeks burning with excitement as she took the chair indicated

by Guy Remington, who unconsciously found himself master of

ceremonies.

Poor little Madeline!