"On the contrary, my trouble, as you call it, has been rewarded by a fortune; my Uncle has made Mallender over to me altogether."
"Hurrah! Hurrah!" cried Freddy clapping his hands, and once more the soul of good-humour. "This is something like news! So you are actually now, as you stand there, in your shabby serge, and disgraceful 'chuklers'' boots, Mallender of Mallender, with eight thousand a year!"
"Yes, I suppose I am."
"I presume Brown and Co. have arranged everything, and made out the deeds; if you'd like me to go and look into matters, you know, my dear boy, you have only to say the word and I am heartily at your service!"
"Thank you. I believe it's all right, I've not heard any details, but I'll let you know later on how things stand."
"And so this, was your business in Madras, my rich young adventurer?"
"Partly."
"What a match for Barbie!" suddenly exclaimed Nancy, "dear little simple girl. But only think of Mrs Miller!" she added with a touch of light-hearted cruelty. "She will be lying in wait for you at Victoria Station—if she is not arranging the house for your reception at Mallender, with triumphal arches, and a band."
"Don't mind her, Geoffrey," said his cousin, "she is only trying to draw you. I should be sorry to think you were not able to grapple with Mother Miller."
"It is really incredible, what a change a couple of hours can make," said Fan. "This evening, I felt so utterly miserable and depressed, I would have thoroughly enjoyed a good cry; now, only it would be too remarkable, I'd like to run out into the compound, and sing! We must fill up the house at once, I'll wire first thing to-morrow for Mrs. Bourne and Barbie. Nan, my dear, we shall have a right merry Christmas!"