Olivia was obdurate at first, but after a time, she yielded, though she assured Rupert she should be miserable all the time he was away. "And do take care of yourself," she said.
"Of course I'll take every care," replied her husband; and so it was arranged that Rupert should go up to town with Major Tidman by the six o'clock train the next evening, and proceed to Penter's Alley, to see Tung-yu, and learn--if possible, the truth.
Olivia's attention was somewhat taken off the projected expedition to the wilds of Rotherhithe, by a visit from Lady Jabe. That eccentric female, looking more like a judge than ever, and dressed in a most manly fashion appeared, with a shining face, to announce that Chris was engaged to marry Lotty Dean.
"It's most delightful," said Lady Jabe, "her father is merely a retired grocer, but I have consented to over-look that, if he settles some money on the young couple."
"And has he consented?" asked Olivia languidly. She did not take much interest in the affairs of Mr. Walker.
"Yes. Mr. Dean has allowed his daughter a thousand a year, paid quarterly," said Lady Jabe amiably, "and that, with what Chris earns at the office, will keep us nicely."
"Us?" echoed Mrs. Ainsleigh smiling.
"Certainly," was Lady Jabe's calm reply, "I have been a mother to Chris, and I intend to be a mother to Lotty. I shall look after the house, and control the purse, otherwise, the young pair may get into the bankruptcy court."
Olivia privately thought that under Lady Jabe's care the young couple, would have a bad time, even though they might be free from bankruptcy. "What does Mr. Walker say?"
"Oh Chris is delighted. He had better be. I'd like to see him cross me, dear Olivia. I've broken his spirit thoroughly. Lotty certainly is a trifle difficult, but I'll break her also by degrees."