Eustace shook his head.
"I thought so the other day, but now--I'm going on an exploring expedition up the Nile."
"You must have the blood of the Wandering Jew in your veins."
"Or Cain!--he was rather fond of travelling, wasn't he?"
"Don't be profane, Mr. Gartney," said Alizon, trying to look serious. "But really you ought to settle down and marry."
"Yes, shouldn't he?" observed Guy caustically, turning round. "Go in for the delights of the family circle."
"That all depends whether he would appreciate them or not," replied Lady Errington coldly, flashing an indignant look at her husband, upon which Eustace to avoid unpleasantness made a hasty observation.
"By the way, talking of the family circle, I have to congratulate you, Lady Errington, on the birth of a son."
Alizon's eyes, which had hardened while looking at Guy, grew wondrous soft and tender.
"Yes!--he is the dearest child in the world--everyone loves him except his father."