'That was Nobbles.'
'Ah, that's another spot on your dress; you're making 'scuses, and blaming Nobbles when it was reely you.'
Bobby hastily changed the conversation, and then there was a knock and ring at the hall door, and in another moment Mr. Egerton and Lady Isobel were in the room, and Bobby was in the arms of his friend. She looked younger and prettier than when he saw her last. She was in a long white coat and black hat. A big bunch of violets was in her button-hole.
'Oh, Bobby, you darling, how glad I am to see you again! I can hardly believe I may one day be your aunt.'
'That day will very soon be here,' said Mr. Egerton.
She laughed, and a pink colour stole into her cheeks.
Bobby's arms were tightly clasped round her neck.
'I never did forget you,' he assured her, 'not before your letter came; and my picsher is lovelly.'
'And who is this little girl? Is she your little step-sister? How delightful to have a playfellow. May I have a kiss, dear?'
True willingly submitted to be embraced.