This was, of course, drank by everyone with acclamation, and then the male portion of the company sang, "She's a jolly good fellow," rather incongruously, it must be confessed.
"I wish Monteith were here," said Pat, when this was done.
Carmela said nothing, but looked much, for in her secret heart, that is just what she had been wishing. At this moment they heard a wild whoop from the river, and saw a boat coming quickly up the stream, rowed by a single man.
"Gad," cried Bubbles, who had the sharpest eyes of anyone; "it's Monteith himself. Speak of the Devil----"
"Hold your tongue," said Pat, "don't be personal."
It was Ronald, looking happy and jolly in his flannels, quite a different being from the gloomy youth of the previous week. He soon brought his light little craft to shore, and sprang on to the green turf, to be welcomed.
"My dear lad," said Sir Mark, "I am delighted to see you, especially as your arrival is so unexpected."
"How did you find us out?" asked Carmela, giving him her hand.
"Oh, easily enough," replied Ronald, gaily. "I came down to Maidenhead, drove over to Bellfield, and finding it was deserted, learnt from the servants where you were, so here I am."
"Hurrah for that," cried Pat; "is drink a curse?"