"But why shouldn't anything come of it? I'm sure you will be a friend to these lovers." "These lovers," repeated Mrs. Belswin jealously. "Do you think Kaituna loves him." "I'm sure of it." "You seem very learned in love, Mr. Clendon; perhaps you are in love yourself." A blush that had been absent for years crept into the bronze of Toby's cheeks. "Perhaps I am. I may as well tell the truth and shame the---- "Mr. Clendon!" "Oh, you understand. I am in love, so is Archie. He loves your charge; I love another girl. Be a kind, good friend, Mrs. Belswin, and help Archie to make Miss Pethram Mrs. Maxwell." "What about Sir Rupert?" "Oh, you can persuade him, I'm sure." Mrs. Belswin frowned. "I have no influence with Sir Rupert," she said shortly, and rose to her feet. "Come with me, Mr. Clendon, and we will go to Kaituna." "You won't help them?" "I can't, I tell you," she replied impatiently. "From all I can see, your friend seems a true-hearted man, but I shall have to know him a long time before I can say he is fit for my--for Miss Pethram. But even if I approve it is of no use. Sir Rupert is the person to give his consent." "Well?" "And he'll never give it." Toby felt depressed at this, and followed Mrs. Belswin meekly to the couple at the sun-dial. The said couple, both nervous and flushed, to all appearances having been talking--Chinese metaphysics. "Kaituna, don't you think these gentlemen would like some afternoon tea?" said Mrs. Belswin sweetly. "I dare say they would," replied Kaituna with great composure. "What do you say, Mr. Clendon?" She did not address herself to Archie, who stood sulkily by the dial following the figures with his finger. Toby glanced from one to the other, saw they were both embarrassed, and promptly made up his mind how to act. "I'm afraid we won't have time, Miss Pethram," he, replied, glancing at his watch. "It's nearly four, and we have some distance to walk." "Well, if you won't have tea you will take a glass of wine," said Mrs. Belswin, looking at Archie; then, without waiting for a reply, she made him follow her, and walked towards the house. Toby followed with Kaituna, and surely never were maid or man more unsuited to each other. He was bold, she was shy. He talked, she remained silent, till they were in the drawing-room, and then the feminine element broke forth. "Mr. Clendon," she said, in a whisper. "Yes! speak low if you speak love." "What do you mean?" "It's not mine. It's Shakespeare's. By the way, you wanted to say something." "I do! Tell him I didn't mean it." She flitted away and Toby gasped. "Tell who? Didn't mean what? Things are getting mixed. Thank you, I'll take a glass of sherry."