"Oh, very, very! I am enjoying myself so much here!"
"I have a great deal to say to you, but you are going out now, I see?"
"Yes," she said, composedly, "I am going out now, but of course you will stay to lunch, and I shall see you afterwards. Mr. Cranmer, did you see Mr. Percivale?"
"Yes; he was very disappointed not to see you."
"He should not come before lunch. I must tell him so; he might know I should not be visible," said Percivale's betrothed, coolly.
The butler appeared.
"Captain and Miss St. Quentin are at the door, and your horse is round, miss."
"At last!" She caught up her gold-tipped riding-whip with her gauntletted hand, and waved it merrily at her god father. "I am going for a gallop round the Park with the St. Quentins, and then I shall see you again," she cried. "Mr. Cranmer, come and mount me, please, the groom is so awkward." She paused a moment at the door. "I have a great deal to tell you," said she, nodding, "so mind you are here on my return! I must not keep my friends waiting."
She was gone.
Mechanically Mr. Fowler went out into the hall and looked. Through the open door the gay winter sunshine shone on the glossy horses and the young, well-dressed riders. Claud helped the heiress to her saddle, gathered up the reins, gave them into her hands, bowed, patted the mare's glossy neck, and the party started away.