“So do I, uncle,” cried the boy. “We were getting on as nicely as could be, with plenty to interest us, and fresh adventures, and then he comes here setting us longing to go off into the wilds.”
“Yes, my boy, and if it wasn’t for the Count and the sense of duty we feel towards him? we would be off to-morrow morning.”
“Well, why not go?” said a voice just behind them.
Rodd and his uncle started round in astonishment, for they were both so intent upon their conversation, as they leaned over the rail talking together, that they had not heard anybody approach, and for a moment they were utterly speechless as they stood staring at the Count, who had just come on board, while Morny was climbing up the side to join him.
“I—I didn’t know you were here,” said the doctor confusedly.
“Why, you asked me to come on board and dine and spend the evening with you,” replied the Count good-humouredly. “Had you forgotten?”
“Well—well,” said the doctor, “I— Really, I’m afraid I had. What—what have you been about?” he continued, turning angrily upon Rodd. “It’s a strange thing, Rodney, that when you know of some engagement that I have made, and it slips my memory, you never remind me of it.”
“Well, uncle—I—”
“Well, uncle—you! I remember now well enough. You were there this morning when I asked the Count and— Ah, Morny, my lad! How are you? Glad you have come.—But, as I was saying, what were you thinking about?”
“Expedition into the forest, uncle,” said the boy frankly.