'What could you do for them, if you could discover them?'
'Mother, that would depend on what condition they were in. I made a promise once to Colonel Gainsborough to look after his daughter.'
'A very extraordinary promise for him to ask or for you to give, seeing you were but a boy at the time.'
'Somewhat extraordinary, perhaps. However, that is nothing to the matter.'
There was a little vexed pause, and then Mrs. Dallas said:
'In the meanwhile, instead of busying yourself with far-away claims which are no claims, what do you think of paying a little attention to a guest in your own house?'
Pitt lifted his head and seemed to prick up his ears.
'Miss Frere? You wish me to take her to drive? I am willing, mamma.'
'Insensible boy! You ought to be very glad of the privilege.'
'I would rather take you, mother.'