know that Jefferson has been left a fortune, or, at least, part of one?"

"I didn't. Still, I'm glad to hear it. I like the man. In fact, he's the
straightest one I've come across in his occupation, which, by the way,
is, perhaps, somewhat of an admission, considering that he's an
American."

"I like most Americans. For one thing, they're usually in earnest."

"And you like Spaniards, who certainly aren't."

"We will waive the question. It's rather a coincidence that Jefferson
should have fallen in love about the same time."

"Do I know the lady, who is, presumably, in earnest, too? I don't like
women who have a purpose openly, though that does not apply to you. You
have usually a good many, but nobody knows anything about them until you
have accomplished them."

Jacinta ignored the compliment. "I don't think you know her, but she is
a friend of mine. I went to school with her for two years in England."

"Then, of course, she's nice."

"That," said Jacinta, "is naturally a matter of opinion. She is,
however, not in the least like me."

"In that case it's difficult to see how she can be nice at all."

Jacinta smiled somewhat sardonically. "Well," she said, "Muriel is
bigger than I am, and more solid--in every way--as well as quiet and
precise. Being the daughter of the clergyman of a forlorn little place
in England, she has, of course, had advantages which have been denied to
me. There are people who have to undertake their own training, or do
without any, you know. She very seldom says anything she does not mean,
and always knows exactly what she is going to do."

"I'm not sure that sounds particularly attractive."

Jacinta lifted her head and looked at him. "Still, she is worth--oh,

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