"No, don't be late, darling," her mother replied; "the Squire does like people to be punctual. It's one of the few things he _is_ strict about. But come in for half a second, my pet. I have not seen you all the morning. How bright and well you are looking!" Imogen stooped to kiss her mother. "Don't keep me, mamsey dear," she said, "Major Winchester is waiting for me. I only ran up for my hat and jacket. You wouldn't have said I was looking bright and well if you had seen me half an hour or so ago. I was in the depths of despair about my part. Indeed, I was almost making up my mind to throw it all up." "And are you in better spirits now, dearest? I am sure they would all be dreadfully disappointed if you gave it up. You will certainly be the central figure in it, by what I hear." "Oh, mamsey dear, you mustn't believe such nonsense," said Imogen. "I truly can't act a bit, and--I'm not at all sure but that some people would be glad if I give it up. However, I think it will go a little better now. Major Winchester has been so kind, so painstaking and patient with me about it--he has been coaching me for ever so long down in the library." "Indeed, dear. I am very glad you have got him to help you. He has really been your good fairy here ever since we came." "Yes, truly he has," said Imogen. "And he _is_ so nice. I had no idea he was such a hero, mamma. You should hear the stories Trixie was telling me of the wonderfully brave things he has done. And Trixie, you know, is by no means one of his admirers in a general way. But I mustn't keep him waiting. Good-bye, mamsey darling," and off she flew, a perfect picture of sunny brightness. "Dear child!" thought her mother. "_She_ seems as happy as possible. It is really wonderful--such a child as she is to have made a conquest of a man like him. He _does_ seem rather old for her, but yet--if _she_ is content; and of course it is not a connection one could in any way ever feel _ashamed_ of. Still, I hope he will not think of precipitating matters: it would be almost more honourable if he were to wait till she has seen a little more of the world. If I could manage to give her a London season next year; but I hardly see how I can. Mrs Helmont has her hands quite full with her own daughters, and she says their London house is too small for visitors. I wonder if there is any one else I could look up; or if we let our Eastbourne house, and could take a little one temporarily in London, as Imogen wishes." Whereupon her mind set off on an interesting journey of practical details, ways, and means.