dislikes of one he has just met; he
can feel his way only by commonplaces. However, if you will offer me a
topic worthy the occasion, in either philosophy, science, or
literature, I will endeavor to feed your mind."

She uplifted her innocent eyes demurely to his face. "You are so kind.
I am deeply interested just now In the Japanese conception of the
transmigration of souls."

"How extremely fortunate! It chances to be my favorite theme, but my
mental processes are peculiar, and you must permit me to work up toward
it somewhat gradually. For instance, as a question leading that way,
how, in the incarnation of this world, do you manage to exist in such a
hole of a place?--that is, provided you really reside here."

"Why, I consider this a most delightful nook."

"My reference was to Glencaid."

"Oh! Why, I live from within, not without. Mind and heart, not
environment, make life, and my time is occupied most congenially. I am
being faithfully nurtured on the Presbyterian catechism, and also
trained in the graces of earthly society. These alternate, thus
preparing me for whatever may happen in this world or the next."

His face pictured bewilderment, but also a determination to persevere.
"An interesting combination, I admit. But from your appearance this
cannot always have been your home?"

"Oh, thank you. I believe not always; but I wonder at your being able
to discern my superiority to these surroundings. And do you know your
questioning is becoming quite personal? Does that yield me an equal
privilege?"

He bowed, perhaps relieved at thus permitting her to assume the
initiative, and rested lazily back upon the grass, his eyes intently
studying her face.

"I suppose from your clothes you must be a soldier. What is that
figure 7 on your hat for?"

"The number of my regiment, the Seventh Cavalry."

Her glance was a bit disdainful as she coolly surveyed him from head to
foot, "I should imagine that a strong, capable-appearing fellow like
you might do much better than that. There is so much work in the world
worth doing, and so much better pay."

"What do you mean? Is n't a soldier's life a worthy one?"

"Oh, yes, of course, in a way. We have to have soldiers, I suppose;
but if I were a man I 'd hate to waste all my life tramping around at
sixteen dollars a month."

He smothered what sounded like a rough ejaculation, gazing into her
demure eyes as if she strongly suspected a joke hid in t