"Know it?" said Jack. "I should think I do. It's one of the most beautiful spots in England."
"Bully," said the American; but he had sufficient native scepticism to ask if the bright girl upstairs did not have an interest in the inn.
"Because she's been recommending it?" Jack asked.
"I just wondered," said the American. "No offence," he added quickly, as Jack's face darkened.
"It's just as well you said that," Jack replied, "or by jingo——" His fists relaxed.
"Now look here, young man," said the American, "forgive me. I meant no harm. And I like you for your feelings. I'll insure my life and come here again."
A few weeks or so later Mr. Barclay Corbet, who was as good as his word, was again announced by Jan.
"Miss Beck," he said, greeting Ben, "I've come to thank you for your advice about an English village and to ask you to help me some more. But this time it's a real business proposition. I've bought Bibury Grange and I want you to furnish it for me as a place should be furnished and find me some good servants. Will you?"
Ben collected her startled wits. "Of course," she said. "When do you want to go in?"
"In three weeks to the minute," said Mr. Corbet, looking at his watch.