In the midst of merry chatter, some one called out:
It was Kenneth Hastings. Hearing her name, she roused from her reverie.
"Sing 'Oft in the Stilly Night,'" suggested Mrs. Clayton.
Then out on the stillness floated the beautiful old Irish song. Other voices joined Esther's. Kenneth Hastings was one of the singers. His voice blended with hers and enriched it.
Song after song followed, all the company participating to some extent in the singing.
Was it the majesty of the mountain scenery that inspired Esther, that sent such a thrill of gladness into her voice? Or was it perhaps the witchery of the moonlight? Whatever may have been the cause, a new quality appeared in her voice, and stirred the hearts of all who listened to her singing; it was deep and beautiful.
What wonder if Kenneth Hastings came under the spell of the song and the singer? The New England girl was a breath of summer in the hard and wintry coldness of his life.
"Who taught you to sing?" he asked abruptly.
"The birds," she answered, in a joyous, laughing tone.
"I can well believe that," he continued, "but who were your other instructors?"
Then, in brief, she told him of her musical training.
Would she sing one of his favorite arias some day? naming the aria.
"Won't you give us an evening recital soon?" asked John Clayton.
And then and there the concert was arranged for.
"Miss Bright," said Mrs. Carmichael, "I am wondering how we ever got on without you."
Esther laughed a light-hearted, merry laugh.
"That's it," Kenneth hastened to say. "We 'got on.' We simply existed. Now we live."
"You are not complimentary to our friends. I protest," said Esther.
"You are growing chivalrous, Kenneth," said Mrs. Clayton. "I'm glad you think as we do. Miss Bright, you have certainly enriched life for all of us."
"Don't embarrass me," said Esther in a tone that betrayed she was a little disconcerted.
But now they were nearing their journey's end. The baying of hounds announced a human habitation. An instant later, the house was in sight, and the dogs came bounding down the road, greeting the party with vociferous barks and growls. Mr. Jamison followed, profuse in words of welcome.
As Kenneth assisted Esther from the wagon, he said:
"Your presence during this drive has given me real pleasure."