She smiled gently at that and said—
“Wait till you hear, Humphrey. My command is that you quit not London at present.”
“I understand,” said I, “and had already resolved that only your command should move me hence.”
“That makes me happier,” said she, with a sigh of relief. “Now for the boon. What if I asked you to spare me Jeannette for a season?”
I think I looked so taken aback by that, that she had it on her lips to take back the request. But I recovered myself in time. “What says she?” I asked.
“I have not asked her,” said she.
“I will ask her then,” said I, and we went together to where Jeannette sat waiting for us.
“Jeannette,” said I, “this maiden asks me to lend her the most precious thing I possess. Say, shall I do so?”
“Yea, Humphrey, and with a willing heart.”
“Then, sweetheart,” said I, kissing her, “I will even lend her thee.”