When Margaret told Miss Skeat that they were going in one of the finest yachts afloat, with the Duke and his sister, her companion fairly crackled with joy.
CHAPTER VI.
The Duke was away during the day, and did not receive the Countess's note until late in the evening. To tell the truth, he was very glad to find that she was going; but he felt there might be difficulties in the way; for, of course, he was bound to let her know the names of his remaining guests. She might hesitate when she heard that Claudius and Barker were to be of the party. After all, Barker was the companion whom the Duke wanted. He knew nothing about Claudius, but he had met enough men of all types of eccentricity not to be much surprised at him, and as the Doctor was evidently a gentleman, there was no objection. Therefore, as soon as the Duke knew of Margaret's determination, he sallied forth, armed with her note, to find Mr. Barker. It was late, but the American was nocturnal in his habits, and was discovered by his friend in a huge cloud of tobacco smoke, examining his nails with that deep interest which in some persons betokens thought.
"It's all right," said the Duke; "she will go."
"You don't mean it?" said Barker, taking his legs off the sofa and wrinkling his face.
"There you are. Note. Formal acceptance, and all the rest of it." And he handed Margaret's letter to Barker.
"Well, that is pretty smart practice," remarked the latter; "I expected you would have difficulties."
"Said she would take some days to make up her mind. She wrote this the same evening I called, I am sure. Just like a woman."
"Well, I think it's deuced lucky, anyhow," said Barker. "Did you tell her who was going?"