"A very good one—he went out with Forbes against Fort Duquesne, and made an enviable record. Now, his duties are merely nominal;—he is attached to his Excellency's staff."
Parkington nodded. "Well, I will try to keep on side-stepping. Only, what one overlooks when alone, one cannot let slip in a crowd. I am quite willing to do anything that will not compromise me."
Miss Marbury's laughter had floated to them, at intervals; now, she and Herford came slowly into view.
"Waiting?" she asked—"for what?"
"For you to change escorts," said Maynadier. "It is my turn, now."
Herford was perfectly willing to yield to Maynadier. His sole purpose had been to take Judith from the Englishman, and, that effected, he was ready to retire. He stepped back, and bowed himself away.
"You have accomplished wonders, Miss Marbury," he said. "The doldrums have completely vanished. I trust you may be as successful with Mr. Maynadier."
"Mr. Maynadier never gets the doldrums," she answered, over her shoulder. "He is far too serious minded!"
"Which might mean, that I am a bore," said Maynadier.