"Yes; but those who go through too much of it never get out again. Where would you be if she got a written promise of marriage from you?"
Poor Johnny did not answer this immediately, for in very truth Amelia Roper had such a document in her possession.
"Where should I be?" said he. "Among the breaches of promise, I suppose."
"Either that, or else among the victims of matrimony. My belief of you is, that if you gave such a promise, you'd carry it out."
"Perhaps I should," said Johnny; "but I don't know. It's a matter of doubt what a man ought to do in such a case."
"But there's been nothing of that kind yet?"
"Oh dear, no!"
"If I was you, Johnny, I'd keep away from her. It's very good fun, of course, that sort of thing; but it is so uncommon dangerous! Where would you be now with such a girl as that for your wife?"
Such had been the caution given by Cradell to his friend. And now, just as he was starting for Allington, Eames returned the compliment. They had gone together to the Great Western station at Paddington, and Johnny tendered his advice as they were walking together up and down the platform.
"I say, Caudle, old boy, you'll find yourself in trouble with that Mrs. Lupex, if you don't take care of yourself."