'Then why don't you come and see us oftener?'
'Because I have a great deal to do, sir; and I do not think Mr Prothero wishes to see me.'
'You thrive upon your absence, Gladys. I never saw any one look so much better.'
'How is the dear mistress, Mr Owen? and your father? and Lion? and the cows? and—and—'
'Not so fast, Gladys. Come and see. They are all quite well. And the Alderney is my particular charge.'
Gladys blushed and smiled.
'You see I came home because you told me, and am as steady as old Time. Don't I look so? I am going to shave off my beard—do you approve?'
'No,' said Gladys, laughing. She scarcely knew why she felt more at ease with Owen in her present than in her past position.
'Then I won't do it. Did you hear that I was going to be married to Miss Richards, Dr Richards' daughter?'
'Yes, sir. I was told so.'