‘But we’ve been at that game for twenty-four mortal hours, my darling,’ he cried, laughing, ‘and before long there will be nothing of us left. Will you come for a walk?’
‘Dearest, I’m too tired.’
‘Well, if your ladyship will give me a little leave of absence, I will go for a swim. It is just the day for it. I sha’n’t be long. Back for luncheon, at all events.’
‘Oh! love, be careful,’ exclaimed Jenny, with startled eyes; ‘don’t do anything rash. Think how precious you are to me!’
‘You dear goose,’ replied her husband, ‘why, swimming is one of the things I do best. However, I will be careful, I promise you, now, and always, that I have such a dear wife to care if I live or die.’
‘I suppose you will not want luncheon till three,’ said Jenny, for the remains of breakfast were still on the table.
‘No, three will do nicely, and then we will have a carriage and go for a jolly drive over the cliffs.’
‘I wish I had my dear cobs here, and could drive you myself,’ said Jenny, with a slight sigh. ‘I wonder if father will let me have my cobs. They are my very own, for he gave them to me on my birthday.’
‘If he doesn’t, your husband will give you a pair that you will like just as well.’
He came back as he spoke and embraced her fondly.