This Mr. Leicester, whom she had once almost despised for being the son of a tallow melter was gradually winning her respect and setting her thinking.
"How kind of you," she said. "I am really very grateful. But I am ashamed that you should have had so much trouble."
"Not at all. I am very fond of dogs," said Mr. Leicester, and the speech, though it seemed ungracious, was pleasantly spoken.
"If you are fond of horses, come and see my ponies," said Violet, in her frank way, and they turned to the stables.
"They are a pretty pair; they'd go well in tandem," said Mr. Leicester, thoughtfully.
"Would they?" said Violet, eagerly. "How I should like to drive them. Is it difficult?"
"No," said Mr. Leicester, "not at all, when you have acquired the knack. If you will allow me, I will show you how to drive the ponies tandem."
"Thank you so much," said Violet, gratefully; "but are you sure that it will not bore you? I know gentlemen dislike being bored."
"No, it will give me great pleasure," he said, simply. "When will you take the first lesson?"