"I think the time's come for drinking his health. It must be done. Will you propose it?"
His brother answered aloud.
"Nathan wants for me to propose your good health, Vivian. But I ban't going to. That sort of thing isn't in my line. I wish you nought but well, and there's an end on't."
"Then I'll say a word," declared the innkeeper, returning to his place. "Fill your glasses—just a drop more, Hester, you must drink—isn't it to your own husband? And I say here, in this family party, that 'tis a proud and a happy thing to have for the head of the family such a man as our brother—your husband, Hester; and your father, you boys and girls. Long may he be spared to stand up among us and set us a good example of what's brave and comely in man; long may he be spared, I say, and from my heart I bless him for a good brother and husband and father, and wish him many happy returns of his birthday. My love and honour to you, Vivian!"
They all rose and spoke after the custom of the clan.
"My love and honour to you, brother," said Humphrey.
"My love and honour to you, Vivian Baskerville," said his wife.
"Love and honour to you, father," murmured the boys and girls.
And Mark said, "Love and honour to you, uncle."
There was a gulching of liquor in the silence that followed, and Mr. Baskerville's little eyes twinkled.