‘But I must tell the story in my own way. I say that you are a lucky dog, Monteagle. Come, one more glass and then to business.’
Monteagle drank, and motioned impatiently to Blodget.
‘My friend, if you work your cards right, there is a fortune in reserve for you.’
A thought struck Monteagle, and for a moment he was agitated. He drank to hide his emotion.
‘Good wine, is it not, Monteagle?’
‘Yes, indeed, but we are coming to the end of the bottle before we get to the beginning of the story.’
‘Oh, but I’ve told you the most important part—that is the fortune. Now with regard to the young lady, she is a perfect angel.’
‘Of course—all angels till after marriage.’
‘No, but you’ve seen her.’
‘Have I, indeed?’