CHAPTER XXV.
COMING OF AGE.
There was great consternation in the tranquil Rectory, when the rector declared with unwonted decision that neither he, nor his wife, nor Phyllis would go north to the coming of age festivities of Philip. These revels had been talked of for years; and since Dorothy had come from Brackenburn she had been called upon to describe again and again the old Manor House and its surroundings. Philip and Phyllis looked forward to choosing the site of the new mansion together.
"You boys may go," said the rector; "you have been brought up as brothers with Philip, and if he wishes it, it is only due to him and his father that you should attend them. But no one else goes."
"What!" cried Dick in blunt astonishment; "not the future Mrs. Martin?"
"What do you mean?" asked the rector sternly.
"Why, Phyllis, of course!" he answered; and Phyllis laughed merrily, and blushed a little, but did not show any resentment.
"I will have no such jests made here," said the rector with increased sternness. "Philip and Phyllis are not children any longer."
"Children? no!" cried Dick; "and it is no jest either, father. They've always been promised to one another. Of course they are engaged."
"Secretly?" said the rector, unable to utter another word.