“But you will come, Van?” said Mr Vine.
“My dear fellow, I wish you would not tempt me. There’s work to do. Then there’s my wife.”
“Bring Mrs Van Heldre too,” said Louise, laying her hand on his.
“Ah, you temptress,” he cried merrily.
“It’s Harry’s last evening,” said Mr Vine.
“Look here,” said Van Heldre, “will you sing me my old favourite if I come, Louie?”
“Yes; and you shall have a duet too.”
“Ah, never mind the duet,” said Van Heldre laughingly; “I can always hear Maddy at home. There, out of pocket again by listening to temptation. I’ll come.”
“Come and join us too, Luke,” said Mr Vine.
“No!” snapped the old fisher.