“I have a great mind not to go,” said Harry.
“Nonsense, man! One would think you were about to receive the reward of your evil deeds. I refer to you, Miss Elliott. Would it be respectful to the new firm, if he were to refuse to go?”
“Bother the new firm,” said Harry, impatiently.
“The new partner, you mean. He has taken a most unreasonable dislike to my brother at first sight—calls him proud, and a snob, because he happens to be shy and awkward with strangers.”
“Shy! A six-footer, with a beard enough for three. After that I’ll vanish,” said Harry.
“I don’t think Harry is very polite,” said Rose.
“Never mind. There are better things in the world than politeness. He will be more reasonable by and by,” said Harry’s friend.
“So your brother has come,” said Graeme. “How long is it since you have seen him?”
“Oh! not for ten years. He was home once after he came out here, but I was away at school, and did not see him. I remembered him quite well, however. He is not spoiled by his wanderings, as my mother used to fear he might be;” then he added, as Harry reappeared, “the fact is, Miss Elliott, he expected to be asked to dinner. We must overlook his ill-temper.”
“By all means,” said Graeme, laughing.