"But what? What's the matter with you?" demanded his father.
Charley, seeing all eyes turned upon him, and most especially Laura's, blushed crimson and remained silent.
"I had arranged to go with Charley this morning to fish for trout in the Mad River," laughingly explained Alden.
"Oh, well, it can't be helped! You feel disappointed, of course, my boy; but everything must give way to the will of the ladies, Charley. 'All the Lyttons are gallant and chivalrous gentlemen,'" said Uncle Jacky, proudly, quoting the words of Emma's letter. "And we are no exception to the rule. Miss Cavendish is anxious for the society of Laura. Laura wishes the escort of her brother, who has also been invited to Blue Cliffs. We must not oppose the will of the ladies," concluded John, bowing to his niece with pompous deference.
Poor Charley blushed purpler than ever, and holding down his red head—like his father's—he mumbled something about "not wishing to oppose no ladies whatsoever."
"Now, then, what time are you expected at Blue Cliffs?" inquired Uncle Jacky, turning to Laura.
"This evening, uncle. Don't you remember? You read the letter."
"Oh, yes! Well, then, you needn't leave till after dinner, Kitty," he called to his wife, "order dinner for twelve o'clock noon, sharp! I want Alden and Laura, if they must leave, to go with full stomachs: do you hear?"
"Why of course, Jacky! Don't we always have dinner at twelve o'clock?" laughingly inquired Aunt Kitty.
"Well, then, mind that to-day a'n't an exception to the rule. Now where's that boy Taters?"