“Poor old Margot! That was it, was it? An unforgivable offence. He lives up in the clouds, my dear; compared with him, you and I are miserable little earth-worms crawling about the ground. It will take some time before he is even aware of our presence. We will have to make friends with the brother, and trust by degrees to make him conscious of our existence. It’s worth waiting for!”
Ronald was plainly afire with enthusiastic admiration of his hero; but for once Margot refused to be infected.
“I’m not a worm!” she murmured resentfully. “Worm, indeed! I’m every bit as good as he!”
For twenty yards she walked on in silence, tilting her chin in petulant scorn. Then—
“Do you remember the old story of Johnny-head-in-air, Ron?” she asked mischievously. “He had a fall. A fall and a dousing! If he isn’t very careful, the same sad fate may await your wonderful Mr Elgood!”
Chapter Ten.
An Excellent Beginning.
Dinner was served at seven o’clock at the Nag’s Head, and was a substantial meal, consisting of spiced salt beef, gooseberry pie, and cheese. Mrs McNab carved the joint at the sideboard, and directed the movements of the maid by a series of glares which appeared to be fraught with wondrous significance.