"We'll no' ask," said Dixen. "If you're wanting me, that is all that need be said. Duty doesn't call two ways at once, they say; and if it's for pleasure, why should not I have a holiday as well as the rest? And madame's no' here to hinder or to try it even." Frederica laughed. "And besides, Miss," continued Dixen, "it is more seemly for a young lady like you to have your servant with you. It may do for children and common folk to go here and there by themselves, but a young lady like you--" Frederica opened her eyes. This was a new light to see the matter in; she was by no means sure that it was a pleasant one. But if it pleased Dixen to be responsible for her dignity and propriety, she would not object, at least on this occasion. So away they went through the streets first, and then round the mountain, to the great enjoyment of them all. Not one of them enjoyed it less, and Dixen I am assured enjoyed it all the more, that they met Mrs Ascot not far from the house, and knew by the look she gave them that she would have liked to turn them back. "Her smile was out of the wrong side of her mouth," muttered Dixen. He knew that she had ordered the carriage for herself at four, and they could not go for her pleasure that afternoon. "I only hope she will not disturb mama till we come home," said Frederica. The drive was charming, but even Frederica confessed to being a little tired when they reached home. It was five and after. Madame Ascot met them at the door. It puts the best-tempered people out to be kept waiting, and her face was not an agreeable one to see at the moment. "Did you not understand that I said four?" asked she sharply. "Miss Frederica," began Dixen, touching his hat to the young lady. "Did I not say four?" repeated Mrs Ascot. "But, madame, it would have been quite impossible. We did not leave home till nearly three," said Tessie. "Don't let it happen again," said Mrs Ascot; taking no notice of the child. Frederica was patting her favourites, calling them, all sorts of pet names. She turned as Mrs Ascot attempted to pass her. "It is a pity, madame. You should have sent, for a carriage. It is quite impossible that the ponies should be taken out again to-night, you know," she added as Mrs Ascot seemed to be preparing to enter the carriage. It is likely madame would have proved it quite possible, had not Mr Vane entered the garden at the moment Tessie ran down the steps to meet him. "Oh, papa, we are to have a whole week of holidays. Are you not glad?" "Papa, I am so sorry we did not drive round by the office and take you up. I thought you must have been home. Yes, they are rather warm, and tired too, but they will be none the worse, will they, Dixen? And I am to drive mama every fine day and you must come too, papa. I shall be charmed to drive you." Mr Vane laughed. "My neck is too valuable," said he: