"That means allowing others to reap what we have sown."
"To get in some portion of the crop, I acknowledge," replied Jack, "but the bulk of the harvest will be ours."
"And supposing I agree, what shall we do?"
"Go to England. You promised to take a trip with me when I returned, and I know you will keep your promise. Moreover, in the event of a certain interesting ceremony taking place you promised to be best man. You cannot back down, and I am going home as soon as I can fix things up here."
Jack suddenly thought of the letter he had recently received with Winifred's message to Barry. He had it in his pocket-book, and taking it out handed it to Barry, saying—
"I am sure you will not refuse when you have read it."
Winifred's message was couched in terms she knew well how to use in conveying thanks to such a man and it also gave a cordial invitation from Sir Lester to visit The Downs, if ever he came to England.
"She's a real downright stunner," said Barry. "A splendid girl, there are not many like her."
"They are few and far between," answered Jack, proudly. "You cannot refuse now."
"It's a plot," said Barry, "to carry me off. Jack, you are a brigand chief."