"He really had to go; he assured me it was absolutely necessary," she said.
Warren Courtly had also added. "I'll be back in a few days, Irene. Run over and see the Squire, you will be company for each other."
"You cannot humbug me, Irene," said Redmond Maynard. "He's tired of the country because there is no sport, and I call it downright selfish of him to go up to town and leave you behind at Anselm Manor."
"But, really, I did not wish to go, Squire."
"You mean it?"
"Yes, most decidedly."
"Then pull off those furs; let me send Bob over for your things and your maid, and stay here until Warren returns," said the Squire.
This time the laugh was hearty enough, and she said—
"Impetuous as ever, Squire. I only wish I could."
"And what is to prevent your doing so?"