"Alarmed! Not I! I will back my darling's truth against the world!"
"Then supposing, instead of confining yourself to words, you prove your faith by deeds. Let this man try his luck to-morrow. If he fails, there is the next day left for you.
"Look here, Ash; when he's failed, will you consent to Lily being mine?"
"If he fails and Miss Truscott gives her consent, then I will."
"Then it's agreed! To-morrow, the beggar shall have his chance! The day after, I'll try mine."
Just then the door opened and Mr. Ely appeared. Mr. Summers rushed to him with outstretched hand.
"Hallo, Ely, haven't seen you for an age! You're looking queer! You ought to try a change of air."
"Think so? To-morrow I'm going out of town."
"Are you? That's odd! The day after I'm going too."
These remarks were exchanged while the two gentlemen shook hands.