"How terribly severe," said Ferdinand.
"But how terribly true," retorted Beaumont carelessly. "However, I will not preach any more as I'm sure you must all be tired of my chatter--and see, there is Doctor Larcher coming."
He arose to his feet as he spoke, for the vicar came striding across the little lawn like a colossus.
"Tea and scandal, I suppose," he roared in his hearty voice as he shook hands with the artist.
"'Hic innocentis pocula Lesbii
Duces sub umbra.'"
"Certainly innocent enough sir," observed Reginald lightly, "but the fact is we have been listening to Mr. Beaumont."
"And the discourse?" asked the vicar, taking a cup of tea from Pumpkin.
"The decadence of Literature and the Drama in England," replied Beaumont with a smile.
"Ah, indeed. I'm afraid, Mr. Beaumont, I know nothing of the drama, except the Bard of Avon----"
"Whom Mr. Beaumont likes, in moderation," interrupted Pumpkin mischievously.