'No, Angus, on my word I am not. You are as good a man as Dowton, and if Mary thinks you better——'
Dick shrugged his shoulders to signify that he had freed them of a load of prejudice.
'But does she?' said Rob.
'You will have to ask herself,' replied Dick.
'Yes; but when?'
'She will probably be up in town next season.'
'Next season,' exclaimed Rob; 'as well say next century.'
'Well, if that is too long to wait, suppose you come to Dome Castle with me at Christmas?'
Rob pushed the invitation from him contemptuously.
'There is no reason,' he said, looking at Dick defiantly, 'why I should not go north to-night.'