After dinner the family gathered in the drawing-room and chatted
pleasantly. Bertram displayed his prettiest and newest pictures, and
Billy played and sung--bright, tuneful little things that she knew Aunt
Hannah and Uncle William liked. If Cyril was pleased or displeased, he
did not show it--but Billy had ceased to play for Cyril's ears. She told
herself that she did not care; but she did wonder: was that Cyril on the
stairs, and if so--what was he doing there?
CHAPTER XXVI
"MUSIC HATH CHARMS"
Two days after Thanksgiving Cyril called at Hillside.
"I've come to hear you play," he announced abruptly.
Billy's heart sung within her--but her temper rose. Did he think then
that he had but to beckon and she would come--and at this late day, she
asked herself. Aloud she said:
"Play? But this is 'so sudden'! Besides, you have heard me."
The man made a disdainful gesture.
"Not that. I mean play--really play. Billy, why haven't you played to me
before?"
Billy's chin rose perceptibly.
"Why haven't you asked me?" she parried.
To Billy's surprise the man answered this with calm directness.
"Because Calderwell said that you were a dandy player, and I don't care
for dandy players."
Billy laughed now.
"And how do you know I'm not a dandy player, Sir Impertinent?" she
demanded.
"Because I've heard you--when you weren't.
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