I always have a great
deal to do at these feasts; I have been at them for years, and know all
about them, and the Rector invariably expects me to keep the ball
going."
"What ball?"
"The ball of pleasure. Each hand must grasp it--everyone must be happy.
That is the Hector's aim and mine."
"I think it is your aim not only to-day, but every day."
"Yes, if I can manage it. I can't always."
"You could always make me very happy."
Beatrice turned her eyes and looked at him. Her look made him blush.
"You are mistaken when you say that," she responded, in a grave tone.
"You are not the sort of person to be made happy by a simple country
girl like me. The Northbury people only need small things, and many
times it is within my power to supply their desires. But you are
different. You would not be content with small things."
"Assuredly not from you."
Then he paused; and as she blushed this time, he hastened to add:
"You can help me not in a small, but in a big way, and if you grant me
this help, you will save my mother, and--yes--and Catherine."
"I love Catherine," said Beatrice.
"I know it--you would like to save her."
"Certainly; but I did not know she was in peril."
"Don't whisper it, but she is. You can put things straight for her.
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