‘But, papa,’ said Maurice, ‘may I have a piece of plate-glass, eighteen by twenty?’
‘When you observe facts in natural history, perhaps I may say something to your entomology,’ said Mr. Mohun.
‘But, papa, all my insects will be spoilt if I may not have a piece of glass, eighteen by—’
He was interrupted by the arrival of the post-bag, which Jane, as usual, opened. ‘A letter from Rotherwood,’ said she; ‘I hope he is coming at last.’
‘He is,’ said Claude, reading the letter, ‘but only from Saturday till Wednesday.’
‘He never gave us so little of his good company as he has this summer,’ said Emily.
‘You will have them all in the autumn, to comfort you,’ said Claude, ‘for he hereby announces the marvellous fact, that the Marchioness sends him to see if the castle is fit to receive her.’
‘Are you sure he is not only believing what he wishes?’ said Mr. Mohun.
‘I think he will gain his point at last,’ said Claude.
‘How stupid of him to stay no longer!’ said Reginald.