Page:Harper's New Monthly Magazine - v109.djvu/975

Rh Wallis. Only a verbal one, sir. Mlle. Carita bade me say that she begged to be excused, having a previous engagement to drive with Mr. Austin.

Godfrey. Very well; that will do.

[Wallis exit.

Godfrey (lighting a cigarette). So I am to be punished for my lack of devotion, and little Austin is only too glad to be employed as the instrument of vengeance. [He walks to centre-table and looks steadily at the picture.] No; I won't do her that injustice. Frankly speaking, we bore one another to extinction, and any excuse is good enough to serve. Little Austin invites my lady to drive up to Claremont, I am asked to dine en famille, and the relief is mutual.

Wallis (entering). The carriage is ready, sir.

Godfrey. Never mind; I shall not want it now until it is time to drive to the station. What have you there?

Wallis. I have been unpacking Mrs. Effingham's box, sir. [He puts an armful of books and pictures upon the sofa.] Where is this to go, sir?

[He holds up a water-color.

Godfrey. Mrs. Effingham will be down directly, and she will probably prefer her own arrangements. [He picks up a cigar-box and a couple of reviews.] Has the library fire been lighted?

Wallis. Yes, sir.

Godfrey. Williams need not drive back to the stable, as it will be only a matter of a quarter of an hour to wait.

Wallis. Very well, sir.

[Godfrey goes out slowly.

Eve. A little higher—that will do. No; the water-color goes there. [She points over at the side wall.] I really believe that papa would notice it if it were the tenth of an inch out of line.

Eve (looking up). That will do nicely. Now take away those boots and