'Ah, but it's not psha! Half-hours between young ladies and young gentlemen before breakfast are very serious things.'
'And I mean to be serious,' said Augustus.
'But I don't,' said Sophia.
'I am to understand then that under no possible circumstances———'
'Bless me, Mr. Staveley, how solemn you are.'
'There are occasions in a man's life when he is bound to be solemn. You are going away from us, Miss Furnival———'
'One would think I was going to Jeddo, whereas I am going to Harley Street.'
'And I may come and see you there!'
'Of course you may if you like it. According to the usages of the world you would be reckoned very uncivil if you did not. For myself I do not much care about such usages, and therefore if you omit it I will forgive you.'
'Very well; then I will say good-night,—and good-bye.' These last words he uttered in a strain which should have melted her heart, and as he took leave of her he squeezed her hand with an affection that was almost painful.
It may be remarked that if Augustus Staveley was quite in earnest with Sophia Furnival, he would have asked her that all-important question in a straightforward manner as Peregrine Orme had asked it of Madeline. Perhaps Miss Furnival was aware of this, and, being so aware, considered that a serious half-hour before breakfast might not as yet be safe. If he were really in love he would find his way to Harley Street. On the whole I am inclined to think that Miss Furnival did understand her business.
On the following morning Miss Furnival went her way without any further scenes of tenderness, and Lady Staveley was thoroughly glad that she was gone. 'A nasty, sly thing,' she said to Baker. 'Sly enough, my lady,' said Baker; 'but our Mr. Augustus will be one too many for her. Deary me, to think of her having the imperance to think of him.' In all which Miss Furnival was I think somewhat ill used. If young gentlemen, such as Augustus Staveley, are allowed to amuse themselves with young ladies, surely young ladies such as Miss Furnival should be allowed to play their own cards accordingly.
On that day, early in the morning, Felix Graham sought and obtained an interview with his host in the judge's own study. 'I have come about two things,' he said, taking the easy chair to which he was invited.
'Two or ten, I shall be very happy,' said the judge cheerily.
'I will take business first,' said Graham.
'And then pleasure will be the sweeter afterwards,' said the judge.
