He handed them the parchments, and George felt inclined to blush as he glanced at the decorated words of eulogy; while a half-ironical twinkle crept into Grant’s eyes.  Then Hardie rose to reply, and faltered once or twice with a sob of emotion in his voice, for the testimonial had a deeper significance to him than it had to the others.  His audience, however, encouraged him, and there was a roar of applause when he sat down.  Soon after that the gathering broke up.

George went to the parlor, which served as writing-room, and found Flora there.  She smiled as she noticed the end of the parchment sticking out of his pocket.

“I dare say you’re relieved that the ceremony’s over,” she said.

“It was a little trying,” George confessed.  “I was badly afraid I’d have to make a speech, but luckily we had Hardie, who was equal to the task.”

“After all, you needn’t be ashamed of the testimonial.  I really think you deserved it, and I suppose I must congratulate you on the fortunate end of your dramatic adventures.”

George stood looking at her.  He was somewhat puzzled, for there was a hint of light mockery in her voice.

“I’ll excuse you if you feel that it requires an effort,” he said.

“Oh, you have had so much applause that mine can hardly count.”

“You ought to know that it’s my friends’ good opinion I really value.”

Flora changed the subject.

“You will be driving out in the morning?”

“I’m starting as soon as Edgar has the team ready.  There’s a good moon and I must get to work the first thing to-morrow.”

The girl’s face hardened.

“You seem desperately anxious about your crop.”

“I think that’s natural.  There’s a good deal to be done and I’ve lost some time.  I came in to write a note before I see what Edgar’s doing.”

“Then I mustn’t disturb you, and it’s time I went over to Mrs. Nelson’s—­she expects me to stay the night.  I was merely waiting for a word with my father.”  She stopped George, who had meant to accompany her.  “No, you needn’t come—­it’s only a few blocks away.  Get your note written.”

Seeing that she did not desire his escort, George let her go; but he frowned as he sat down and took out some paper.  Soon afterward Edgar came in, and they drove off in a few more minutes.

“Did you see Miss Grant?” Edgar asked when they were jolting down the rutted trail.

“I did,” George said shortly.

“You seem disturbed about it.”

“I was a little perplexed,” George owned.  “There was something that struck me as different in her manner.  It may have been imagination, but I felt she wasn’t exactly pleased with me.  I can’t understand how I have offended her.”

“No,” said Edgar.  “It would have been remarkable if you had done so.  I suppose you told her you couldn’t rest until you got to work at the harvest?”