"The journey takes about three hours and a half, and you travel by the Southwestern line."
"Well, I intend to have the pleasure of running down to see you presently, if you will permit me."
"Oh, of course, we shall be very happy to see you."
"I hope so," said De Burgh, with a smile. "I don't think you are very encouraging. If there are any decent roads about this place, shall we resume the driving lessons?"
"Thank you"—evasively. "I think of buying a donkey and chaise—certainly a pony for the boys."
De Burgh laughed. "I suppose there is some boating to be had there. I shall certainly have a look at the place, even if I be not admitted to the shrine." There was a pause, during which De Burgh seemed in profound but not agreeable thought; then he suddenly exclaimed: "By-the-way, have you heard the news? Old Errington died, rather sudden at last, some time last night."
"Indeed!" cried Katherine, roused to immediate attention. "I am very sorry to hear it. The marriage will then be put off. You know they were going to have it nearly a month sooner than was at first intended, because Mr. Errington feared the end was near. He was with his father, I hope?"
"Yes, I believe he hardly left him for the last few days. Now the wedding cannot take place for a considerable time."
"It will be a great disappointment," observed Katherine.
"To which of the happy pair?"