"Lola," he remarked severely, "you're behaving like a school-girl."
"Am I?" she asked, her vivacity dropping from her; then a moment after she added, "I suppose it's because I'm so happy. Oh, I'd forgotten."
"Forgotten what?"
"We can't go on the river to-morrow; I shall be calling on Aunt Caroline."
"Look, here's Drew," cried Beresford, jumping up. He had caught sight of Drewitt being conducted towards them by a page. Having shaken hands with Lola he sank into a chair.
"Yes, Richard," he said, "you have interpreted me aright—coffee. How I wish Hoskins were here."
Whilst they were waiting for the coffee they chatted upon general topics. When Drewitt had fortified himself with two cups he turned to Beresford.
"Richard," he said, "have you given a full, true and particular account of your interview with the Aunt to-day?"
Lola's smile answered the question.
"Then," said Drewitt, turning to Lola, "I must ask you what sum you will require to release Richard from his engagement?"
"What sum!" She looked at Drewitt in amazement.
"I've just returned from dining at Curzon Street," said Drewitt; then turning to his cousin added, "Richard, you owe me an apology for that dinner.
