"That's one of those problems which a man is quite unqualified to solve," he said indifferently.
"Well, I'll ask them, and chance it. Oh, here are some of the carriages. Would you like to run away, or will you——"
But he went to the front to meet and greet his guests.
A couple of hours later, while the trio at the lodge were at supper, the servant brought in two notes.
"One for me, and one for you, Mr. Falconer. And from the house! Do you see the coronet on the envelope? I wonder what it is? Perhaps a polite intimation that we are to clear out!" said Nell.
"Or an equally polite request that we will keep off the grass," said Dick. "Do you know how to find out what's in that envelope, Nell?"
"No," she said, holding it up to the light.
"By opening it, my brainless one!"
"Mr. Falconer, you are nearer him than I am; will you oblige me by kicking him? Oh, Dick! It's an invitation to the dance to-morrow—for you and me."
"And for me," said Falconer. "And will I be so very kind as to bring my violin?"