They had ridden no further than Battle church, grey in the midst of its green grass and great elms, when De Rothan glanced significantly at Jasper.
"Mr. Benham, sir, you are a most fortunate young man. A most exquisite lady, your cousin. I offer you my felicitations."
"Sir?"
"Ah, you think me too forward. We French, sir, are less difficult, less reticent. Now in France, Mr. Benham——"
"I don't know what you mean, Chevalier."
"Ah—my good young man!"
He shrugged, and smiled like a grandee.
"These Sussex villages delight me, Mr. Benham. Such red brick, such maturity. They live in the landscape. I assure you I never tire of riding everywhere, and seeing your sweet villages."
Jasper grunted, which was bad manners.
Before long they parted company. And to part company with the Chevalier de Rothan was a considerable event. It justified, even glorified, a whole day's existence.