Aldean entered. He was welcomed by Mrs. Purcell with all the pomp she considered due to a member of the nobility.
Tui was joyous. "I thought you were never coming," she said. "I see that it is out 'of sight, out of mind' with you."
"By Jove! I wish it were," sighed Jim; "I should be a happier man."
"Oh, surely I don't make you miserable?"
"Never mind; it is misery I would not be without. Tell me, how is Major Semberry?"
"Good gracious, Lord Aldean, how should I know? I have not seen him for years."
"'Tis to be hoped that you will not again come into contact with Major Semberry," said Mrs. Purcell, wagging her turban; "he is not a suitable acquaintance for a young lady."
"No, I am quite sure he is not," assented Aldean; upon which Tui at once took up arms on behalf of the absent.
"Major Semberry is the most charming of men," she declared, with a pout.
"The serpent," rebuked Mrs. Purcell, "is ever beautiful to the eye but unfortunately is possessed of noxious qualities which far exceed his beauty. Rubina, in my letter to you I think I stated my opinion of Major Semberry. From that opinion I have seen no reason to depart."