It
soon became evident to Graydon that the two girls were hostile, and
this both amused and vexed him. He was beginning to learn that Madge
was the more skilful opponent. She was never aggressive, yet seemed
clad in polished armor when attacked, and her quick replies flashed
back under the light of her smile. By acting, however, as if Miss
Wildmere were never in her thoughts, except when in some way obtruded
upon them, she gave the keenest wound. The flattered girl enjoyed
being envied, hated, and even detested by her own sex, but to be
politely ignored was a new and unwelcome experience, and she chafed
under it, not so secretly but that Graydon observed her annoyance.
After a rest they started on again, he with Miss Wildmere falling to
the rear. Before Madge passed around a curve in the path she saw a
lily on a bank above her, and with the aid of her alpenstock sprang
upon the mossy shelf, plucked the flower, and leaped down with an
effort so quick and agile that it seemed like the impulse of a bird
to get something and pass on. She put the flower in her belt, and a
moment later was hidden from view.
"I hope you observed that feat," Miss Wildmere remarked. "Indeed, Miss
Alden appears inclined to call attention to her feet this morning.
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