"Sorry, Toney, but I really can't! All my plans are made. I go Wednesday evening, and I shall be at Charing Cross Hotel for a week more, and that is a very short time for all my preparations."
"To prepare for the lions?" asked Toney seriously.
Lewis laughed.
"Yes, if you put it like that."
"It's a pity there are not lions in England."
"There are lions in my path——"
"Guess you, mean a pussy cat—sort of relation to tigers anyway. You know I will help you—if I can."
"You can't, Toney, thank you."
"Anyhow, I'll take care of Maud."
"You've done wonders for her as it is. I don't know how you manage it."