In spite, however, of the resentment of the one girl, and the too manifest admiration of the other, this hero managed to have pretty much his own way. Beatrice had to reply to his sallies, she was forced to meet his eyes; now and then even he drew a smile from her.
When the time came for Miss Meadowsweet to go home, Albert Bell was eagerly summoned to accompany her.
"This is unnecessary," said the captain; "I will see Miss Meadowsweet back to the Gray House."
"Oh, now, Captain! Bee, don't you think it's really too much for him?"
"Of course I don't, dear Mrs. Bell," said Beatrice, stopping the good lady's lips with a kiss; "but Albert shall come too, so that I shall be doubly escorted."
She nodded and smiled to her hostess, and Mrs. Bell felt a frantic desire to send Matty with her brother, but some slight sense of decorum prevented her making so bare-faced a suggestion.
Albert Bell was very proud to walk with Beatrice, and Captain Bertram felt proportionately sulky. To Albert's delight, who wanted to confide his own love affairs to Bee, the captain said good-night at the top of the High Street.
"As you have an escort I won't come any further," he said. "When are we to see you again? Will you come to the Manor to-morrow?"
"I don't know," said Beatrice, "I've made no plans for to-morrow."
"Then come to us; Catherine told me to ask you. Our tennis court is in prime order. Do come; will you promise?"