"Leaving?--come."
He knew that they would reach the person for whom they were intended, and that she would understand their meaning and act accordingly.
The dinner that night on board the Imperial yacht Hohenszrallas was a gorgeous affair in every sense of the word. All the principal yacht-owners were present, and, at the conclusion of the banquet, Carne's health as winner of the great event of the regatta, was proposed by the Emperor himself, and drunk amid enthusiastic applause. It was a proud moment for the individual in question, but he bore his honors with that quiet dignity that had stood him in such good stead on so many similar occasions. In his speech he referred to his approaching departure from England, and this, the first inkling of such news, came upon his audience like a thunder-clap. When they had taken leave of his Majesty soon after midnight, and were standing on deck, waiting for their respective boats to draw up to the accommodation ladder, Lord Orpington made his way to where Simon Carne was standing.
"Is it really true that you intend leaving us so soon?" he asked.
"Quite true, unfortunately," Carne replied. "I had hoped to have remained longer, but circumstances over which I have no control make it imperative that I should return to India without delay. Business that exercises a vital influence upon my fortunes compels me. I am therefore obliged to leave without fail on Friday next. I have given orders to that effect this afternoon."
"I am extremely sorry to hear it, that's all I can say," said Lord Amberley, who had just come up. "I assure you we shall all miss you very much indeed."
"You have all been extremely kind," said Carne, "and I have to thank you for an exceedingly pleasant time. But, there, let us postpone consideration of the matter for as long as possible. I think this is my boat. Won't you let me take you as far as your own yacht?"
"Many thanks, but I don't think we need trouble you," said Lord Orpington. "I see my gig is just behind yours."
"In that case, good-night," said Carne. "I shall see you as arranged, to-morrow morning, I suppose?"
"At eleven," said Lord Amberley. "We'll call for you and go ashore together. Good-night."