“Why not? If the ladies are agreeable. At first sight there may be something a trifle anomalous in the idea of the owner of a property who has journeyed several hundred miles to occupy it petitioning for the privilege of being allowed to remain as a boarder, but, of course, I have the limitations[102] of the Northerner and doubtless fail to get the correct point of view.” [102] But Winthrop’s irony was quite lost on the Major. “My dear sir, you have taken a great load from my mind,” exclaimed the latter. “I had hoped that the difficulty might be surmounted in just the way you propose, but somehow I gathered after meeting you that you—ah—resented the presence of the ladies.” “Nonsense!” said Winthrop, a trifle impatiently. “Miss Wayne and her niece are quite welcome to remain here as long as they like. I was, however, naturally surprised to find anyone in possession. By all means let us renew the rental agreement. Meanwhile, if the ladies are agreeable, I will remain here and pay board and room-rent. I dare say my visit will not cover more than three months. And I will try to be as little trouble as possible.” “Then the matter is settled,” answered the Major, with a gratified smile. “Unless——” He paused. [103] [103] “More difficulties?” asked Winthrop, patiently. “I hope not, sir, but I won’t deny that Miss India may spoil our plans.” “You mean that she may not want to take a boarder?” “Well, it’s this way, Mr. Winthrop.” The Major cleared his throat. “Miss Wayne has always been prejudiced against Northerners, but——” “Really? But she seemed kindness itself this afternoon.” “I’m delighted to hear it, sir, delighted! And allow me to say, Mr. Winthrop, sir, that you couldn’t have played a stronger card than you did.” “Card? What do you mean, Major?”
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