‘Well, I have had my suspicions. But what matter? Cannot things take their course?’
‘Agree to such a match for Edith? Robert, you must be demented.’
The general had seldom seen his wife so excited before.
‘He is a very rising young soldier.’
‘Who has already risen from the ranks. It will never do. I have no false pride about me, I think, but it is right to draw the line somewhere. But even if there were no other objections, that of means ought to suffice. What are they to live upon? His pay? Ridiculous and absurd.’
‘He cannot be dependent on his pay. He lives well, keeps horses, and makes altogether too good a show. I have heard rumours of some rich old lady in the background, who has made him her protégé.’
‘That story might not quite bear investigation,’ said Mrs. Prioleau drily. ‘We know nothing about Mr. Larkins—where he comes from, or to whom he belongs.’
‘I had no idea you were so keen, Sophia, I confess I like the lad. However, speak to Edith if you feel that it is necessary. I leave it all to you.’
It was while Mrs. Prioleau waited her opportunity that chance gave Herbert an adverse rub.
Edith, with Captain Mountcharles as escort, was returning from the Moorish Castle, when she came suddenly upon Herbert Larkins. He was leaving a small cottage, which was evidently a soldier’s quarter. It was, in fact, the home of old Sergeant Larkins and his wife.