“It was indeed in Germany that he learned his thorough grasp of politics, statesmanship, business, and finance, and acquired his lofty ambitions and indomitable perseverance.”
“He'll do, Eleanor,” said the young man. “That's to say, if he is anything like the prospectus.”
His sister made no immediate reply. She seemed to be musing—and not unpleasantly.
At that moment a motor car passed the window.
“My!” exclaimed Eleanor, “I'd quite forgot! That will be to take the Honorable Stanley to the station. We must say good-by to him, I suppose.”
She turned to the Count and added in explanation—
“The last to apply was the Honorable Stanley Pilkington—Lord Didcott's heir, you know. Oh, if you could see him, you'd realize what I've had to go through!”
Even as she spoke he was given the opportunity, for the door somewhat diffidently opened and an unhappy-looking young man came slowly into the room. He was clearly to be classified among the round-shouldered ineligibles; being otherwise a tall and slender youth, with an amiable expression and a smoothly well-bred voice.
“I've come to say good-by, Miss Maddison,” he said, with a mournful air. “I—I've enjoyed my visit very much,” he added, as he timidly shook her hand.
“So glad you have, Mr. Pilkington,” she replied cordially. “It has been a very great pleasure to entertain you. Our friend Count Bunker—Mr. Pilkington.”