“Yes, if you will. Will you excuse me now, as Edwin and I are going to play shuffleboard?”
“Certainly, but I hope to see you again.”
“Oh, we shall meet often.”
Later on Cyril introduced Ben to the Earl and Countess. The earl was rather roughly dressed, as he had been on a visit to the Rocky Mountain region. Both he and the countess were pleased with Ben’s appearance, and greeted him with kindly cordiality.
“You don’t often meet handsomer boys than Cyril and his young American friend,” he said to the Countess. “I am very well pleased that Cyril has found such a pleasant companion.”
The next day, much to her gratification, Mrs. Harcourt was introduced by Cyril to his father and mother. In rather a fulsome way she expressed her pleasure at the intimacy of Cyril with Edwin.
“You have reason to be proud of your son, Mrs. Harcourt,” said the Earl politely. “He is a fine-looking boy.”
“Thank you, my lord. You are indeed very kind.”
“Shall you remain in England any length of time?” asked the Countess.
“I may spend a month in London, Lady Bentley.”