University of Virginia Library

VIII.

The next day when Jack called at the little house Koto met him alone.

“Ah—er—where is Na—Miss Natsu?”

“She went over to see some of her 'honorable' relatives. She'll be back soon. Don't you like to talk to me any longer, Jack?” this last reproachfully. It made the young man start and look at her very sharply, then he stood still, looking a trifle embarrassed, holding his silk hat in his hand. Koto was studying him in a queer little dissecting fashion. She couldn't help thinking how very nice and dressy he looked in his long Prince Albert coat and top hat.

“Jack, are you in love with Natsu?” she asked abruptly, watching his face curiously as she put the question.

He flushed, surprised at the sudden query.

“Ye—why, of course,” he began lightly, and then looking up, caught the studying glance of the girl's eyes. They held him for a moment, and then he pulled himself together and stood erect with his shoulders squared.

“Of course I like her—who could help it? She is a dear little thing.”

“H'm! But you don't love her, do you?” Her eyes were still on his face, as though she would read the truth there.

He answered promptly this time.