"It is awfully venturesome, but I'll do it," promised the girl after a moment's hesitation.
At this point Mrs. Vandeleur approached, and the remaining details of the conspiracy had to be hastily whispered at parting.
"You'll come as often as you can, duckie?"
"Yes, but I shan't be able to let you know long beforehand."
"I'll get the canvas ready at once. Come to-morrow."
"Can't. I'll let you know when. What shall I wear?"
"Any white frock."
"I'll remember. Good-bye."
This arrangement had been entered into over a week ago, and as yet no word had come from Maudie. Nevertheless Pallister was working away with renewed ardour, living in a state of eager expectation. Of course, the little idea had to be confided to Geoff, since he had so unexpectedly reappeared upon the scene. Strangely enough, it did not appeal to him in the light of an unquestionably brilliant notion preordained to success. He was inclined to advise decidedly against it, but finding that his opinion, although formally asked, was in reality not wanted in the least, he raised no actual objection to the carrying out of the plan.
"But, Geoff," persisted the somewhat crushed Pallister, "surely it is an awfully fine idea, so enterprising and original. Don't you think so really?"