But there was still a greater surprise in store for me and for Restham.
Annabel came into the library one morning with the ominous words: "I've got something to say to you, Reggie."
I looked up from the letter I was writing, and wondered indifferently what fresh vexation was in store. Nothing had any longer the power to vex me very much: but I could guess from Annabel's expression that something was coming which would vex me as much as it was able.
"Well, what is it?" I asked.
Annabel remained standing opposite to me on the other side of the writing-table.
"I expect it will surprise you a good deal, Reggie."
"Well, out with it. Has Blathwayte been offered another Deanery, or has the cook given notice? And don't you think you'd better sit down?"
Annabel sat down on the most uncomfortable chair within reach. "Mr. Blathwayte has asked me to marry him, and I've accepted," she blurted out.
She was right. It did surprise me more than I had thought I could ever be surprised again. It fairly took my breath away.
"Good Heavens, Annabel!" I gasped, when my breath returned to me. "This is astounding news indeed."