"Don't be a fool."
This cryptic remark seemed greatly to reassure Jim.
"Ye mean it, sir?"
"Of course I do. I should be lost without you after all this time. Marry that nice girl at Fittering, and she shall maid my lady. For I'm to be married as soon as may be!"
"Ay, s—my lord! I'm sure I'm very glad, s—your lordship. Rose, sir? With the silver lacing?"
"I think so, Jim. And a cream—very pale cream waistcoat, broidered in with rose. There is one, I know."
"Yes, sir—your lordship."
My lord eyed him despondently.
"Er—Jim!"
"Yes—your lordship?"