But there was fresh delay. Arrangements to return could not be made so easily as Capt. Lovell anticipated. It was seven months from the day that Mrs. Middleton reached England when Capt. Lovell was driven to his hotel in London. Meanwhile events had occurred which were to have an effect upon Mrs. Middleton’s plans.
CHAPTER XXXI
TONY ASTONISHES HIS OLD FRIENDS
“Tony,” said George Spencer, one evening, “you have been making wonderful progress in your studies. In six months you have accomplished as much as I did at boarding school in two years, when at your age.”
“Do you really mean it, Mr. Spencer?” said Tony, gratified.
I am quite in earnest.”
“I am very glad of it,” said Tony. “When I began I was almost discouraged. I was so much behind boys of my age.”
“And now your attainments raise you above the average. Your tutor told me so yesterday, when I made inquiries.”
“I am rejoiced to hear it, Mr. Spencer. I was very much ashamed of myself at first, and did not like to speak before your friends for fear they would find out what sort of a life I had led. That is what made me work so hard.”
“Well, Tony, you may congratulate yourself on having succeeded. I think you can venture now to take a little vacation.”