“I expect to have to give up everything,” said the other with a sour mouth.
As soon as he perceived a favourable opportunity, Anthony Pennell rose to take his leave. He did not wish to quarrel with Ralph Pullen about a girl whom he had only seen once, at the same time he feared for his own self-control, if his cousin continued to mention the matter in so nonchalant a manner. Pennell had always despised Captain Pullen for his easy conceit with regard to women, and it seemed to him to have grown more detestably contemptible than before. He was anxious therefore to quit the scene of action. But, to his annoyance, when he bade Margaret good-evening, Ralph also rose and expressed his wish to walk with him in the direction of his chambers.
“I suppose you couldn’t put me up for the night, old chappie!” he said with his most languid air.
“Decidedly not!” replied Pennell. “I have only my own bedroom, and I’ve no intention of your sharing it. Why do you not go back to Richmond, or put up at an hotel?”
“Doosid inhospitable!” remarked Captain Pullen, with a faded smile.
“Sorry you think so, but a man cannot give what he does not possess. You had better stay and keep your sister-in-law company for a little while. I have work to do and am going straight home!”
“All right! I’ll walk with you a little way,” persisted Ralph, and the two young men left the house together.
As soon as they found themselves in the street, Captain Pullen attacked his cousin, eagerly.
“I say, Pennell, what is the exact direction of the Red House?”
“Why do you want to know?” enquired his companion.