'But, darling, it is the only straightforward course.'
'But not tonight. I beg of you, not tonight.'
'Why not?'
'Because father is in a very bad temper. He has just had a letter from the bishop, rebuking him for wearing too many orphreys on his chasuble, and it has upset him terribly. You see, he and the bishop were at school together, and father can never forget it. He said at dinner that if old Boko Bickerton thought he was going to order him about he would jolly well show him.'
'And the bishop comes here tomorrow for the Confirmation services!' gasped Augustine.
'Yes. And I'm so afraid they will quarrel. It's such a pity father hasn't some other bishop over him. He always remembers that he once hit this one in the eye for pouring ink on his collar, and this lowers his respect for his spiritual authority. So you won't go in and tell him tonight, will you?'
'I will not,' Augustine assured her with a slight shiver.
'And you will be sure to put your feet in hot mustard and water when you get home? The dew has made the grass so wet.'
'I will indeed, dearest.'
'You are not strong, you know.'