And with that parting sally the light-hearted young fellow rode off after his friend.
When he reached the Park, Violet was standing in her habit on the lawn, with Leo making frantic dashes at her and altogether in insane delight.
"Isn't it hot?" said Violet, as they bent over her hand. "I'm afraid Lady Ethel will not have the courage to venture; the least fastidious might fear for their complexions this morning."
"Then you are not fastidious at all?" said Leicester.
"No, not at all," said Violet. "Besides, my blue veil will protect me. Ah, here's Captain Murpoint. He is going to ride my dear old Ned. Look at him; isn't he a noble fellow?"
"Who? the captain, or Ned?" said Leicester.
"Oh both," said Violet, with an arch smile.
And certainly the term would not have been altogether ill chosen; the captain did look well on horseback, and he sat on the old horse as if he had grown to his back.
"And here is another favorite," said Bertie, as the groom brought round a pretty white Arabian.
Leicester approached and held his hand, and when Violet placed her small foot in it, lifted her on to the saddle with that ease which is only acquired by practice.