"Now, as to yourself, my dear Beverley," continued the Marquis authoritatively, "you 're doocid late, y' know; but then—"
"He can ride," said the Viscount.
"And he's game," nodded the Captain.
"And, therefore," added the Marquis, "we'll see what can be done about it."
"And b'gad, here's wishing you luck!" said the Captain.
At this moment Peterby entered the yard, deep in converse with a slim, gentleman-like person, whose noble cravat immediately attracted the attention of the Marquis.
"By the way," pursued the Captain, "we three are dining together at my club; may I have a cover laid for you, Mr. Beverley?"
"Sir," answered Barnabas, "I thank you, but, owing to—circumstances" —here he cast a downward glance at his neckerchief—"I am unable to accept. But, perhaps, you will, all three of you, favor me to dinner at my house—say, in three days' time?"
The invitation was no sooner given than accepted.
"But," said the Viscount, "I didn't know that you had a place here in town, Bev. Where is it?"