She sailed through the salle-à-manger, with Beaple Yeo prancing after her, hat in hand, and puggaree waving. The Labartes looked at their aunt pleadingly.
'Very well, girls; if you wish, go after Miss Durham,' and away scampered the three.
'Oh, Salome!' sighed Janet, 'I cannot bear him! He promised not to interfere with us.'
Salome sighed also. 'We must bear with him a little longer. He will find this place dull and take himself off.'
'But, Salome, what does he mean about being Earl of Schofield? About the pearls and strawberry-leaves?'
'Money—of course—always money.'
'I wish I had not let the girls go after him—to the telescope.'
'It is a pity—but Miss Durham is there.'
'Yes, and with her they are safe. You like her?'
'I admire her. I think I like her. If I were a man I should fall madly in love with her, but——'