three figures," she answered, regarding the precious slip of
paper affectionately before replacing it in its imposing envelope.

"Ninety-two pounds, fifteen and sixpence more," he groaned; "it's a
lot for a photograph of a mere baby, but I can't be left out in the
cold."

"Perhaps I can let you have one without a frame for less, only
father's must be the best."

"Nevil," remarked Aymer severely, "I would call your attention to the
fact that your wife is beginning to weigh men's merits by their
means."

Nevil only laughed.

"I hear she has raided you of all you possess. Six pounds odd."

"Seven pounds four and sixpence," corrected Aymer. "I should like the
correct sum printed in good plain figures on your list, Renata. Being
my all, it is a superior present to more pretentious donations."

"Six pounds four and sixpence, however," persisted Nevil.

Aymer looked up quickly.

"Did you count it?"

Nevil nodded.

"It must have dropped," said Aymer slowly. "I'll send it you with the
interest, Renata."

But he knew it had not been dropped.

Mr. Aston began telling them of a deputation from the Friends of the
Canine Race he had received that day, and no more was said on the
other matter.

CHAPTER VI

Although Christopher's habit of acquisitiveness had given Aymer some
uneasy moments, yet there had been so far no very serious conflict of
the question of meum and tuum. Aymer had sought rather to overwrite
the rude scrawl of Marley Sartin than to erase it. The most serious
aspect that had shown itself hitherto was Christopher's readiness to
accept tips from over-generous callers and even to put himself to
ingenious trouble to invite them. Constantia Wyatt was a great
offender in this and brought down a severe scolding on her own head
from her brother when he at last learnt of Christopher's propensity.

"He does it so neatly and with such a charming, innocent face,"
pleaded Constantia, half laughing; "it's no harm, Aymer. All boys like
tips: I know my boy does."

But she rather libelled Master Basil Wyatt, who, though not averse to
a donation, would have scorned to solicit it. Aymer had told
Christopher that gentlemen did not do these things and had taken care
to keep the boy out of the way of departing visitors. But this had
been before his first lecture on the obligations of money, and
Christopher had taken that lesson to heart and quite outgrown his
childish and perfectly innocent habit of inviting