"That is pretty good," said Constance to herself, "but I will take these two young people out of doors: perhaps Philip may be better pleased:
"'Your letter has arrived, I see,' said Helena, advancing as Bertram opened the garden gate.
"'Yes, I have just read it,' he replied as he secured the fastening.
"'Well?' said Helena, taking the path to the house.
"'It says I must delay no longer,' he replied, proffering her a bunch of wild-flowers he had gathered in his walk.
"'When shall you start?' said Helena, turning away to pluck some rosebuds, which she added to her bouquet.
"'Tomorrow, at the latest,' he answered, flinging aside roughly a branch that crossed his path.
"'Have you told my aunt?' said Helena, tying the strings of her hat.
"'No: I must do it now,' he said, holding out his hand to relieve her of her parasol as they entered the shady avenue.
"'Shall you go direct to London?' she asked hurriedly.