A FRESH START.
'Did you say that Mark and his wife were come to Springfield House?'
'They come the day after to-morrow,' answered Ursula. 'Mark could not finish up the business sooner.'
'Well, I suppose we must have them to dinner for once. He has made a fool of himself, but I won't have the Canoness complaining that I take no notice of him; and it is easier done while he is there than when he has got into some hole in the City—that is if he ever gets anything to do.'
'Mr. Dutton has several situations in view for him.'
'In view. That's a large order. Or does it mean living on Dutton and doing something nominal? I should think Dutton too old and sharp a hand for that, though he is quartering them on himself.'
'I believe there is nothing Mr. Dutton would like better, if he thought it right for them, but I am quite sure Mark and Annaple would not consent.'
'Ha, ha!' and Mr. Egremont laughed. 'Their nose is not brought to the grindstone yet! Say Saturday, then, Ursula.'
'Am I to ask Mr. Dutton?'
'Of course; I'm not going to have a tete-a-tete with Master Mark.'