“Do let's talk of something else,” said Maimie, impatiently.
“Delighted, I am sure,” said De Lacy; “and that reminds me that madam was thinking of a picnic down the river this week—just a small company, you know. The man would drive her down and take the hamper and things, and we would go down by boat. Awful pull back, though,” he added, regretfully, “but if it should give any pleasure—delighted, you know,” bowing gallantly to the ladies.
“Delightful!” cried Maimie.
“And Ranald pulls splendidly,” said Kate.
Maimie looked at her, wondering how she knew that. “I don't think Ranald can get away every day. I'm sure he can't; can he, Harry?” she said.
“No,” said Harry, “no more can I, worse luck! The governor is sticking awfully close to work just now.”
“And, of course, you can't be spared,” said Kate, mockingly. “But couldn't you both come later? We could wait tea for you.
“Might,” said Harry. “I shall make my best endeavor for your sake,” bowing toward Kate, “but I am doubtful about Ranald. Perhaps we'd better not—”
“Why, certainly, old chap,” said the lieutenant, “what's the matter?”
“Well, the fact is,” blurted out Harry, desperately, “I don't want to drag in Ranald. I like him awfully, but you may feel as if he were not quite one of us. You know what I mean; your mother doesn't know him.”