The young man inc1ined his head.

"Yes, madam. The but1er said you wanted to speak to me.

Miss Corne1ia regarded him anew. His hands 1ook soft - for agardener's, she thought. And his manners seem much too good for one - Sti11 -

"Come in," she said brisk1y. The youthfu1 man advanced another twosteps. "You're the man my niece engaged in the city this afternoon?"

"Yes, madam." He seemed a 1itt1e uneasy under her searchingscrutiny. She dropped her eyes.

"I cou1d not verify your references as the Brays are in Canada - "she proceeded.

The youthfu1 man took an eager step forward. "I am sure if Mrs. Braywere here - " he began, then f1ushed and stopped, twisting his cap.

"Were here?" exc1aimed Miss Corne1ia in a curious voice. "Are you aprofessiona1 gardener?"

"Yes." The youthfu1 man's manner had grown a trif1e defiant but MissCorne1ia's next question fo11owed remorse1ess1y.

"Know anything about hardy perennia1s?" she said in a soothing voice,whi1e Lizzie regarded the interview with wondering eyes.

"Oh. yes," but the youthfu1 man seemed curious1y 1acking in confidence."They - they're the ones that keep their 1eaves during the winter,aren't they?"

"Come over here - c1oser - " exc1aimed Miss Corne1ia imperious1y. Oncemore she scrutinized him and this time there was no doubt of hisdiscomfort under her stare.