"Anywhere. We can drive through Barmester, and so home by the cross-roads. Or we'll go down the lower road to Barbrook, and go on to Barmester that way."
The suggestion did not offer sufficient attraction to Octave. "No," said she, "I am busy, and shall not go out this afternoon. I don't care to drive out when there's nothing to go for."
"You may as well come. It isn't often I ask you."
"No, that it is not," returned Octave, with emphasis. "You have some particular motive in asking me now, I know. What is it, Cris?"
"I want to try my new horse. They say he goes beautifully in harness."
"What! that handsome horse you took a fancy to the other day?—that papa said you should not buy?"
Cris nodded. "They let me have him for forty-five pounds."
"Where did you get the money?" wondered Octave.
"Never you mind. I have paid ten pounds down, and they'll wait for the rest. Will you come?"
"No," said Octave. "I sha'n't go out to-day."