By the way, what time do you lunch?"
"Half-past one," said Simpkins. "Will you--"
"Thanks," said Meldon; "I will, if you're quite sure there's enough for
two. I'm due at Miss King's at four. The Major's there. Miss King
asked him to luncheon with her. But you needn't mind. He hasn't the
least notion of marrying her or anybody else. You can come with me in
the afternoon if you like. In fact, I think it would be a very good
plan if you did. I'll clear the Major out of the way at once, and then
you can have a good innings. If you play your cards properly to-day,
you'll certainly be in a position to propose to her to-morrow."
At four o'clock Meldon led the rather embarrassed Simpkins up to
Ballymoy House. Miss King and Major Kent were sitting together on the
lawn, and were apparently getting on very well indeed. The greeting
between Mr. Simpkins and the Major was constrained and cold. Miss King
seemed to feel that the situation demanded tact. She suggested
ordering tea at once, and having it out of doors.
"Not for us, thanks," said Meldon. "The Major and I must be off at
once. We haven't a moment to delay."
Major Kent looked surprised, and seemed inclined to ask questions.
Pages:
139
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147
148
149
150
151
152
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163