"I thank my friend for his words, because I think he believes them!—but I rise to drink the health of Miss Whitburn. I believe she does not like titles, so when we think of all she has accomplished, we mentally say 'Toney'—— Round this word centres the gratitude of two persons who can never forget her. I am further asked by Mr. Lewis Waycott, to say how much he regrets not being amongst us, but his plans could not be altered. He has ordered that all the cottagers on his estate are to have a good dinner—he wishes us to accept that as his wedding present. For my part he could not have offered me anything I appreciate more."
Toney felt her throat tighten again. Lewis had thought of the nicest thing possible—if only he had been there himself! Maud was looking so happy, but then she, of course, knew he was happy, and knew he could not change.
Now Miss Honoria had something to say.
"I am very sorry that my nephew is not here in person, but he thought of everybody before his departure, and he begged me to say that as all the wedding arrangements were due to Miss Whitburn, he had asked all his tenants to remember her when they enjoyed their dinner."
Toney actually blushed, and Sir Evas, who was sitting beside her, nudged her.
"Come, Toney, say something. Don't say you're shy! Nobody would believe that!"
Toney laughed and stood up.
"It's all a mistake. I'm just doing nothing but please myself awfully when I plan a romance, so there is no credit at all but—— Gracious stars! I can't spout any more."
There was a burst of laughter and the wedding ended in merriment. Toney's one comfort was, "He did think of me anyhow." As they prepared to get ready for going away, she went up to Maud, his Maud.
"Maud, you do look sweet! I want to kiss you. It will do me good."