[Pg 44] True replied Bernard but I understand there are sort of students there who want to get into the War Office and notable banks. Would that be a help asked Mr Salteena egerly. Well it might said Bernard I can give you a letter to my old pal the Earl of Clincham who lives there he might rub you up and by mixing with him you would probably grow more seemly. Oh ten thousand thanks said Mr Salteena I will go there as soon as it can be arranged if you would be so kind as to keep an eye on Ethel while I am away. Oh yes said Bernard I may be running up to town for a few days and she could come too. You are too kind said Mr Salteena and I dont think you will find her any trouble. No I dont think I shall said Bernard she is a pretty girl cheerful and active. And he blushed rarther red. [Pg 45] CHAPTER 5 THE CRYSTAL PALACE About 9 oclock next morning Mr Salteena stood bag in hand in the ancestle hall waiting for the viacle to convay him to the station. Bernard Clark and Ethel were seated side by side on a costly sofa gazing abstractly at the parting guest. Horace had dashed off to put on his cocked hat as he was going in the baroushe but Francis Minnit was roaming about the hall well prepared for any deed. Well said Bernard puffing at his meershum pipe I hope you will get on Alf I am sure you have that little letter to old Clincham eh In deed I have said Mr Salteena many thanks for the same and I do hope Ethel will behave properly. [Pg 46] Oh yes I expect she will said Bernard with a sigh. I always do said Ethel in a snappy tone. Just then there was a great clatter outside and the sound of hoofs and a loud neigh. The barouche I take it said Bernard rising slowly. Quite correct sir said Minnit flinging wide the portles. Well goodbye Alf old man said Bernard Clark good luck and God bless you he added in a pius tone. Not at all said Mr Salteena I have enjoyed my stop which has been short and sweet well goodbye Ethel my child he said as bag in hand he proceeded to the door. Francis Minnit bowed low and handed a small parcel to Mr Salteena a few sandwighs for the jorney sir he remarked. Oh this is most kind said Mr Salteena. Minnit closed his eyes with a tired smile. Not kind sir he muttered quite usual. Oh really said Mr Salteena feeling rather [Pg 47] flabergasted well goodbye my good fellow and he slipped 2/6 into the butlers open palm. Mr Salteena had to travel first class as active Horace ran on to buy the ticket which he presented with a low bow the _Times_ and _Tit-Bits_. Oh many thanks my man said Mr Salteena in a most airy voice now will you find me a corner seat in the train eh. If there is one sir replied Horace.