“I have pressed her upon the subject several times, but unsuccessfully. Never mind, I will be even with her. It has been in my mind very often to tell you of my idea of a wedding present for these dear friends of ours.”
“Yes, yes,” said his lordship; “what is it, dearest?”
“Oh, something so dreadfully expensive,” said the Countess; “something almost unheard of as a wedding present.”
“You excite my curiosity,” said his lordship, gaily.
“It is something belonging to you—a gift in your own possession.”
“Our pictures?” said his lordship, eagerly.
“No, my love.”
“Our pottery, our books, our jewels?” said his lordship, tossing a stone into the lake for the amusement of a water spaniel.
“No; I fear you cannot guess,” said Amy.
“Then I will give it up at once: whatever it be, Amy, it is yours to bestow upon bride or bridegroom,” said his lordship.