“Of course, my lad; all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.”
“But I think it is the duty of every young man—boy, if you like, mother,” he said, smiling.
“Young man, Philip,” she replied, “for I’m sure you’ve grown into a very fine young man.”
“Ugly as possible,” growled the father, with a twinkle in his eye.
“I’m sure he’s a much finer and handsomer young man than you were when I married you, father!” said the old lady with spirit.
“Oh, of course!” chuckled Mr Hexton; “he’s lovely! Phil, boy, pray use scented soap and plenty of pomatum.”
“Come, father, let’s set aside joking for the time,” said Philip quietly. “I’m very glad to get home again, and to find my mother so proud and happy to have me back—and you, too, sir.”
Mr Hexton nodded, and changed his position a little.
“You want to know what I mean to settle to be, sir?”
“Yes, my boy; I should like to know.”