“Thomas Gerrard, Esquire?”

“Mrs Elizabeth Westonley!”

“You are to marry Kate Fraser!”

“Am I, old woman? You're a perfect jewel of a sister to find me such a charming wife. But you see there are one or two trifling formalities to be observed. First of all, I should have to ask her her views on the subject.”

“You ought to have done that a year ago.”

“And have met with a refusal like poor Forde and Aulain.”

“No, you would not have been refused. I know that much,” was his sister's emphatic observation. “But you are letting the time go by, Tom. And I am sure she is wondering why you don't ask. I know that she loves you.”

“Do you really?” and he shook his head smilingly.

“Yes, I do. I'm certain. And I know you are fond of her.”

“Been long in the clairvoyant business, Lizzie?”