I shall make such
arrangements that Simpkins simply won't be able to escape, however hard
he tries."
Meldon was not obliged to spend a sleepless night devising meetings
between Simpkins and Miss King. He put the oars into the coach-house
as soon as he reached Portsmouth Lodge, and then settled down with a
pipe on a hammock-chair outside the door. He was ready with a
practical suggestion by the time Major Kent had finished dressing for
dinner. Being too wise to propose a difficult matter to a hungry man,
he waited until the meal was nearly over before he said anything to his
friend.
"Major," he said, "to-morrow is Sunday, and I think it would be a
capital thing if you introduced yourself to Miss King after church.
You could waylay her just outside the porch, and tell her who you are.
I've talked to her a good deal about you, so she'll know you directly
she hears your name."
"I don't think I'll do that, J. J.," said the Major. "From what you've
told me about her I don't think she's the kind of woman I'd care about.
I think I'll keep clear of her as much as I can."
"I told you," said Meldon, "that she was good-looking and had pleasant
manners when not irritated.
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