Vane rose and went to the looking-glass, stared at his lips, made a grimace and returned.

“I say, uncle, do I look so very horrid?” he said.

“That eye’s not ornamental, my boy.”

“No, but shall you mind very much?”

“I? Not at all.”

“Then I shall come back with you.”

“Won’t be ashamed to be seen?”

“Not I,” said Vane; “I don’t care, and I should like to be at home when Mr Deering comes.”

“Why?”

“He may be able to get me engaged somewhere in town.”