"So glad, my dear Sidney, to hear the news. It was a pleasant surprise. And isn't it strange that by yesterday's post I got a letter from Gavine, telling me she was engaged to young George Lockhart. I understand Mr. Neville and he are great cronies. It gave me quite a shock when I had the letter. These modern daughters settle up their own affairs quite independently. I shall have to congratulate her and provide her trousseau. That is all my part of it."
"Dear Gavine!" said Sidney warmly. "She deserves to be happy, for she is spending her life in trying to make others so."
They did not stay much longer. Randolph was impatient to get Sidney to himself. They were walking home to the farm, talking as only lovers can, when suddenly, in a turn of the road, they came face to face with a little group of people. Jockie and Austin were escorting some friends down to the riverside. They were in boating attire. It was a trying moment for all, for Sidney and Randolph instantly recognised the couple who had wrought tragedy in their lives—Archibald Hughes and his wife. Introductions followed, of course. Mrs. Hughes had a washed-out appearance, and rather a spiritless laugh, but light came into her eyes as she turned to Randolph. She could not forget the past; few women can.
"I was wondering when we should meet you again," she said. "We came over to Thanning Towers last night to dine and sleep, and now we have been persuaded to stay to a water picnic. But you know Sir Peter, of course. Do come over and see us."
"I'm afraid I shall not be able to, thanks," said Randolph briefly.
Archie Hughes was the most awkward one of the party. He was trying to be unconscious of Sidney's presence; and yet she had never looked more charming than she did now, and he found his eyes wandering towards her in spite of himself.
In the first shock of the meeting Sidney had paled even to her very lips, but her greeting was perfectly assured and gracious.
"When are you going back to India?" she asked him.
"Er—when?—er—I think in about a month's time. We're visiting round in this neighbourhood for a week or so. A lot of changes. Sorry to hear about your father. Never knew it till we got here. Is your uncle here still?"
"Yes. He has married since you were in this part. He would be very glad to see you."