"Not at all. He sits very well now, and the pony's perfectly quiet."
"But he is too young to ride by the side of any vehicle. It is not safe. Let him sit with you as usual."
"Nonsense! Edward, you shall ride the pony. Help him up, Ralph."
"No, Maude. He—"
"Be quiet!" said Lady Hartledon, bending towards her husband and speaking in low tones. "It is not for you to interfere. Would you deny him everything?"
A strangely bitter expression sat on Val's lips. Not of anger; not even mortification, but sad, cruel pain. He said no more.
And the cavalcade started. Lady Hartledon driving, the boy-groom sitting beside her, and Eddie's short legs striding the pony. They were keeping to the Park, she called to her husband, and she should drive slowly.
There was no real danger, as Val believed; only he did not like the child's wilful temper given way to. With a deep sigh he turned indoors for his hat, and went strolling down the avenue. Mrs. Capper dropped a curtsey as he passed the lodge.
"Have you heard from your son yet?" he asked.
"Yes, my lord, many thanks to you. The school suits him bravely."