"Of course——" Sir Charles began, hesitatingly.
"Then that is settled, my dears," Peter J. interrupted. "I knew his lordship would not deprive you of a pleasure if you desired it very much. Now, you girls, run away and put a few things in a bonnet-box, sufficient for a forty-eight hours' trip. Perhaps, when we return, your excellency will so far honour us as to come on board and dine with us."
"Thank you, it is very kind of you."
"Not at all. I believe in showing hospitality when it is in my power to do so. Would you mind trying one of my cigars? I think you will find the flavour excellent."
Sir Charles hesitated for a moment, then took the proffered weed and proceeded to cut the end off with a penknife.
Meanwhile Madeline and Kitty had rushed off to Madeline's room and began packing boxes with all possible speed.
"Rather large bonnet boxes, eh, Madeline?" Kitty questioned, with a laugh.
"Do you know, I feel like a burglar," Madeline answered.
"I never was a burglar," was the reply, "so I don't know what it feels like to be one."
"Everything will be terribly crushed," Madeline went on, "but I can't help it. Will you ring for the porter, Kitty?"