Page:Robert Barr - Lord Stranleigh Philanthropist.djvu/272

 "I thank you, Stranleigh, most sincerely. You will find it one of the best deals you have ever made."

"It is not a business deal, Peter: it is philanthropy. I told you I was making experiments in that line. Every capitalist in England would reject your proposal. However, I have a good reason for my action."

"What is that?"

"It is because 'Peter' and 'philanthropy' begin with the same initial. So does 'persiflage,' now I come to think of it. Ah, there is the luncheon bell. Come into the house, and I will sign the two cheques; when those are in your pocket I hope you will enjoy a substantial meal, if you care for farmhouse fare. There is no Camperdown Club cuisine when you penetrate this far into the country."

Summer faded into autumn, and autumn chilled into winter. The interval between July and January brought to Lord Stranleigh many new experiences, and added considerably to his list of friends. There was no doubt about it that the young man possessed the gift of ingratiating himself even with casual acquaintances. When, during the hot afternoon of that July day, Peter Mackeller