"All the Waycotts always were as proud as Lucifer."
"But you are so understanding. Ouf! I shall feel less under an obligation too if you get a first-rate rig-out for killing lions and tigers."
"Can't think why he has taken that idea into his head."
"I think I know. Lions are next door to tigers, and tigers are same family as wild cats, and wild cats turn into pussies, and, I bet, he has not hit it off with the old pussy at Waycott."
"Good heavens, Toney! What reasoning powers you are developing, but the old pussy, as you call that worthy lady, can only be too delighted about the engagement. Rather foolish to keep it so quiet! I expect Honoria Waycott objects to cousins marrying. Always was a sensible woman. I've great regard for Honoria Waycott."
"I'm sorry for her, she just adores her nephew. Now I must run. You won't make a mistake will you, uncle? Say--you must compose anything you like."
"Not much of an author, Toney, but I'll do my best---- Call it a wedding present?"
"Oh, no! He's determined not to let it out yet, so it wouldn't do. It's a great pity to be proud, isn't it? 'by that sin fell the Angels,' but Lewis Waycott is awfully nice otherwise."
"Very much altered of late. First-rate fellow, but--yes, certainly devilish proud. Beg pardon, Toney, my language is not quite choice enough for an heiress."
"There you are at it! Heiress! Uncle, I shall go up with you to town and see Mr. Staines on business, and come back in the evening. I shall want a rest after the wedding."
"And come back alone! Not quite the thing!"
"The thing!" repeated Toney scornfully, and ran away.
Everybody was kept going that day. Toney's untiring energy made Mr. Russell think seriously of resigning his post, and he was glad to see her starting off alone in the motor at half-past six. She was going to meet the bridegroom, and in her heart Toney hoped to say a real good-bye to Lewis Waycott, but the fates were all against her, for the express came panting in before the dog-cart dashed up, and Lewis only had time to jump in, leaving his luggage to follow. Toney caught sight of a flying vision of him, and he did not even see her---- She stood quite still as the train rushed out of the station. A feeling as if the sun had gone out of the sky, and as if life were not worth living came upon her, then a great contraction in her throat--a feeling of numbness all over her.