Eileen nodded: "Yes, it is better to be in plenty of time. You can't tell what Sultana may forestall you."
"So you'll tell him, won't you?" inquired Drina with business-like briskness.
Miss Erroll looked absently at her: "Tell who what?"
"Uncle Philip—that you're going to marry him when you're old enough."
"Yes—when I'm old enough—I'll tell him, Drina."
"Oh, no; I mean you'll marry him when you're old enough, but you'd better tell him right away."
"I see; I'd better speak immediately. Thank you, dear, for suggesting it."
"You're quite welcome," said the child seriously; "and I hope you'll be as happy as I am."
"I hope so," said Eileen as the pony-cart drew up by the veranda and a groom took the pony's head.
Luncheon being the children's hour, Miss Erroll's silence remained unnoticed in the jolly uproar; besides, Gerald and Boots were discussing the huge house-party, lantern fête, and dance which the Orchils were giving that night for the younger sets; and Selwyn, too, seemed to take unusual interest in the discussion, though Eileen's part in the conference was limited to an occasional nod or monosyllable.