looks quite knocked up."

"Yes, she has been very ill on the voyage, and waited at Southampton
to gather strength for the journey.--I am so grateful to your good
Rose, Julius.--Why, where is the boy? Vanished in her wake, I
declare!"

"His venerable head is quite turned," said Frank. "I had to get
inside alone, and let them drive home outside together to avoid
separation."

Raymond repeated his question as to the quarters of Miles's wife.

"I had the old schoolroom and the bedroom adjoining newly fitted
up," answered Mrs. Poynsett. "Jenny Bowater was here yesterday, and
gave the finishing touches. She tells me the rooms look very nice.--
Cecil, my dear, you must excuse deficiencies; I shall look to you
in future."

"I hope to manage well," said Cecil. "Had I not better go up now?
Will you show me the way, Raymond?"

The mother and her two younger sons remained.

"Haven't I brought you home a splendid article?" was Frank's
exclamation. "Julius has got the best of it."

"I back my Cape Gooseberry," returned Charles. "She has eyes and
hair and skin that my Lady can't match, and is a fine figure of a
woman besides."