"But duty calls."
"Let it. And if you're as virtuous as all that, please note that it is your duty to entertain your guests—meaning me. Tell me the—I say, there's somebody coming across the lawn."
"Help!" Isobel pulled a face. "My pet aversion."
"Of course," grumbled Allen disconsolately, "this would happen the very first time I've had you to myself." He sat up and regarded the approaching couple with malevolence. "Which is your—er—friend? Male or female?"
"Oh, female. The vicar's rather a dear, but his wife...." She gave an all-expressive gesture, and rose to be polite to her unwelcome guests.
"This is Mr.... Why, do you know each other?" For the vicar and Allen had fallen into one another's arms.
"Last time we met," explained the reverend gentleman, "I was bowling for your father's team and this young man was what is technically known as taking tea off me."
"I remember," said Isobel. "I was scoring and very busy you kept me."
"Well, well, how splendid to see you again, and recovering your strength, I hope? And what tremendous luck for you falling into the hands of friends!"
"I should rather think it was," agreed Allen with enthusiasm.