"Ah," replied Sylla, her eyes dancing with fun, "I think I begin to understand you now. I was the wrong young lady."
"Well," said Cottrell, "I am very much afraid you were. Do you see now why I so basely deserted you and changed partners with Beauchamp? You used to be quick enough in abetting me in such pranks last winter."
"I declare," rejoined Sylla, laughing, "you are the wickedest and most amusing man I ever came across. You dare to tell me that these Bloxam people have the audacity to come poaching on our Suffolk preserves?"
"Oh, I don't say that; still, people are so unscrupulous now-a-days.
But I want your help in another little bit of mischief."
"What is it?" rejoined the young lady, with an animation which promised ready assent.
"Do you know Beauchamp well enough to ask him to dance?"
"Yes, certainly; only don't you let them know it at the Grange."
"Not I. The carriages have just been sent for; make him dance with you, and take him out of the way when I signal to you. He came here with Lady Mary and Miss Bloxam in the carriage. When he is not to be found, I shall volunteer to take his place, leaving him to follow and take mine in the break; and shall take care that the fact of his being left dancing with you does not escape Lady Mary's attention."
"Go across and tell Mr. Beauchamp I want him," said Sylla. "I'll take care he is out of the way when wanted."
This little conspiracy was crowned with success; and when the carriage was announced, Lionel Beauchamp was nowhere to be seen.