'I cannot say I remember it.'
'Well, let it pass. I am in that sort of magnanimous mood that I am ready to pronounce absolution on all offences—past, present, and to come. By the bye, Audrey, I forgot to tell you something. Kester has had the letter he wanted, and Widow Blake graciously signifies her assent.'
'Michael, let me give you a timely warning. We shall quarrel if you call my friend by that ridiculous name.'
'A quarrel cannot be carried on by one party alone,' he returned lazily; 'and I absolutely refuse to consider a mere statement of facts in the light of a grievance. Still, if your feelings are wounded, and you object to my allusion to your fair friend's bereaved condition——'
'Michael!' with a little stamp, 'will you leave off talking about Mrs. Blake and tell me what you mean?'
'It is perfectly simple, I assure you. Kester wrote to his mother to ask if he might go up to town with me, and she said "Yes."'
'Must you really go?' rather regretfully. 'It would be so much nicer if you came to Rutherford with us. You know,' she continued affectionately, 'I always miss you so much when you are away.'
Michael gave her one of his quick looks, and then he picked up a smooth white stone that had attracted his attention.
'I shall follow you in ten days—at least, that is my present intention, unless Stedman's business keeps me.'
'But will not Kester be in your way?'