'Thank you, I shall be very happy,'
Mr Rice Rice, junior, and Sir Hugh wished that they were good chess players. It was quite an honour to be invited to a family party at Glanyravon.
'Put the chess-table into the book-room, Winifred, and lock the door.'
Mr Gwynne actually rose in the excitement of the moment.
'If the servants come they will disturb the men, and—and—all that sort of thing, you know.'
Miss Gwynne and Rowland carried the chess-table into a small room, opening into the drawing-room, and duly locked the door after them.
'I suppose you are fond of chess,' said Miss Gwynne for want of something to say.
'Very,' said Rowland laconically, and she little knew what was passing in his mind.
Always the same thoughts when in her presence—thoughts of mingled approbation and dislike. But she cared little what he thought of her.
'Dry and pedantic, and very disagreeable,' was what she thought of him.