When the two men drove into the yard that August morning, the Hapgood
twins were picking nasturtiums, and the flaming yellows and scarlets
lighted up their somber gowns, and made patches of brilliant color
against the gray of the house.
"By Jove, it's a picture!" exclaimed the would-be purchaser.
The lawyer smiled and sprang to the ground. Introductions swiftly
followed, then he cleared his throat in some embarrassment.
"Ahem! I've brought Mr. Hazelton up here, ladies, because he was
interested in your beautiful place."
Miss Rachel smiled--the smile of proud possession; then something within
her seemed to tighten, and she caught her breath sharply.
"It is fine!" murmured Hazelton; "and the view is grand!" he continued,
his eyes on the distant hills. Then he turned abruptly. "Ladies, I
believe in coming straight to the point. I want a summer home, and--I
want this one. Can I tempt you to part with it?"
"Indeed, no!" began Rachel almost fiercely. Then her voice sank to a
whisper; "I--I don't think you could."
"But, sister," interposed Tabitha, her face alight, "you know you said--
that is, there are circumstances--perhaps he would--p-pay enough--" Her
voice stumbled over the hated word, then stopped, while her face burned
scarlet.
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