"I am going on now to Verner's Pride, Lucy. You can tell my mother so, should she ask after me when she returns. I may be late."
"But you will take some tea, first?" cried Lucy, in a hasty tone. "You asked me to make it for you."
He knew he had—asked her as an excuse to get her from the room.
"I don't care for it," he wearily answered.
"I am sure you are tired," said Lucy. "When did you dine?"
"I have not dined. I have taken nothing since I left home this morning."
"Oh!" She was hastening to the bell. Lionel stopped her, laying his hand upon her arm.
"I could not eat it, Lucy. Just one cup of tea, if you will."
She, returned to the table, poured out the cup of tea, and he drank it standing.
"Shall I take Mrs. Verner up a cup?" asked Lucy. "Will she drink it, do you think?"